By Lori Ewing MANCHESTER, March 1 (Reuters) - Manchester United supporters delivered a pointed response to minority owner Jim Ratcliffe's immigration comments, unfurling a banner celebrating the
Manchester United Fans Unfurl Immigrant Banner After Ratcliffe Comments
Fans Respond to Ratcliffe's Immigration Remarks
By Lori Ewing
Banner Display During Premier League Victory
MANCHESTER, March 1 (Reuters) - Manchester United supporters delivered a pointed response to minority owner Jim Ratcliffe's immigration comments, unfurling a banner celebrating the club's foreign players during Sunday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.
Message Behind the Banner
The Stretford End displayed a banner reading "MUFC proudly colonised by immigrants" - a clever riposte to Ratcliffe's remark last month that Britain had been "colonised by immigrants".
Ratcliffe's Apology and Public Reaction
The billionaire has since apologised, saying he was sorry he had caused offence with his comments that even drew a rebuke from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Celebrating Foreign Players at Manchester United
Tribute to International Stars
United fans showcased images of beloved foreign players past and present, including France's Eric Cantona and Patrice Evra, South Korean midfielder Park Ji-sung, Norway's Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, current captain Bruno Fernandes, Brazil's Casemiro and Ivorian Amad Diallo.
Impact on the Pitch
The banner proved apt as Fernandes helped inspire United's comeback win at Old Trafford, converting a penalty before the Portuguese midfielder provided an assist for Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko's winning header.
Significance of the Victory
Premier League Standings and Fan Sentiment
The victory lifted United to third in the Premier League table, with their foreign players once again proving their worth on the pitch while fans made their feelings crystal clear in the stands.
(Reporting by Lori Ewing in Manchester and Rohith Nair in BengaluruEditing by Toby Davis)
