Manchester United are forced to increase the capacity of Old Traford ahead of next week’s game against Burnely due to strikes by paramedics.
More than 10,000 fans will miss Wednesday night Carabao cup draw, which has sold out, after safety advice meant two United stadium belts will be closed.
Northwest Ambulance Service strike on December 21 over wages, which led to the capacity limit of 62,000 being reached.
A statement from United read: “The club has been working hard to develop a medical plan that will allow us to allow around 62,000 fans to attend, but with West Stand tier 2 and North Stand tier 3 to be closed.
It was not possible to move the match to another date due to the unavailability of other key public services and match staff over the Christmas period, the completion of stadium works during the World Cup break and the existing fixture schedule of both teams.
“These areas were the only possible options to achieve the required reduction while complying with the robust medical plan requested by the authorities.
“As the match is currently sold out, tonight we have written to fans in the affected areas to offer the option of a full refund. We will do our utmost to assist anyone affected by this who has not chosen to receive a ticket. to accept refunds, relocation, with priority given to Full and Cup season ticket holders.”