MUST have called on fans to have an 'open mind' regarding the club's stadium options.

The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) have given their backing to the new taskforce that has been set up to explore options for the club’s stadium plans.

It was confirmed on Friday that Lord Sebatian Coe will lead the taskforce that will examine the feasibility of a new stadium or the regeneration of United’s current ground. The taskforce includes Gary Neville, Andy Burnham, as well as representatives from Trafford council, United’s Fans’ Advisory Board and the two Manchester universities, among others.

The new taskforce will not make any decisions regarding the club’s stadium plans, but will advise United on their available options. The combined plans also see a regeneration of local districts Old Trafford, Wharfside, Salford Quays and MediaCity.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whose preferred option is a newly built stadium, described it as a ‘once-in-a-century opportunity’ for United to have a stadium that could rival Wembley, the Nou Camp or Bernabeu.

Meanwhile, the club’s Supporters’ Trust have offered their verdict on the matter and have expressed their delight that the new co-owner has considered their opinions ahead of any major decision.

“Today, the Club has announced a new Taskforce to consider the options for the future of Old Trafford and its surroundings, which MUST has been invited to join to represent fans views and interests," the fan group said via a statement.

“This announcement seems to be a signal of real intent and ambition in terms of investment in the stadium and surrounding area. United fans used to take great pride in the fact we had the best ground in the country - and we all want that to be the case once again. Certainly, we all know investment in OT is desperately needed and most fans would put it right at the top of their priority list.

“The million dollar question is whether to redevelop the existing stadium, our home for 114 years, or build a new ground next door. Any decision to move from our home would need to be taken in full consultation with fans, but we believe all supporters should enter the process with an open mind willing to look at the evidence and the options, and assess what would be in the best interests of the Club, supporters and the community.

“The process needs to take into account a wide range of stakeholders, particularly supporters, and we’re pleased to have been asked to join the group where we intend to best represent fans interests. In that role representing fans views, we intend to make sure fans have as much information as possible and we will consult widely to understand the collective view of the fanbase. This is not about MUST’s view on the future of OT - it is about yours.

“It is important to understand that the Task Force is not a decision making body. It has been set up to ensure all stakeholders are represented in considerations that go beyond the stadium and impact the local community too. Of course, in the end, it is the owners, the executive management of the club and the local authorities which will take any decisions but our role is to ensure the fan’s voice is heard and our priorities are taken into account.

“We view this a good step forward. And we will be back in touch in the near future to embark on the process of fully understanding fans views on the future of our home and its surrounding area.”