Old Trafford Pulled from 2015 Rugby World Cup

Manchester United have removed Old Trafford from the list of venues to be used during the 2015 Rugby World Cup. 

Manchester City’s 60,000 capacity Etihad Stadium is expected to replace it on the shortlist.

Old Trafford, which can seat 76,000 fans, was expected to host three matches during the tournament, but Manchester United have pulled the stadium out of consideration due to fears over the effects of the pitch. 

The tournament takes place in September and October 2015, when the club are likely to be competing in the Premier League, Champions League and Capital One Cup. Super League’s Grand Final also takes place at the stadium every September.

Organisers hope to finalise the stadium plans and tournament schedule later this month.