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Manchester United have issued a travel alert to supporters heading to Sunday's Premier League clash with Fulham, warning that major rail disruption will affect journeys from Manchester to London.
United's matchday account advised travelling fans to plan as early as possible after engineering works on the West Coast Main Line were confirmed for Sunday, September 20.
There will be no direct trains between Manchester and London during the disruption, with supporters urged to consider alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys.
United warn fans over West Coast Main Line disruption
In a message to supporters, Manchester United said: “The West Coast Main Line will be blocked south of Milton Keynes for Network Rail engineering works.”
The club added that rail replacement services would be operating and encouraged fans to plan their journeys as early as possible, directing supporters to National Rail's journey planner for the latest information.
The disruption is linked to the removal of the Oxhey Grange footbridge near Watford Junction, which Network Rail says has deteriorated and needs to be removed urgently to maintain safety.
All four West Coast Main Line tracks and the adjacent London Overground Lioness line will close from midnight on Saturday until 4pm on Sunday, September 20. Network Rail has warned passengers to avoid travelling where possible during the closure.
Avanti West Coast has also issued a strong warning, advising passengers to avoid travelling to or from London Euston on Sunday if possible. Its services will terminate at Milton Keynes Central or Rugby until 4pm, while journeys south of Milton Keynes will require alternative arrangements.
Alternative routes available for United supporters
Fans who still need to travel to London have several options, although all are expected to take longer than normal.
National Rail says replacement buses will operate between Milton Keynes Central and Bedford, while Thameslink and East Midlands Railway services will connect Bedford with London St Pancras International.
Avanti tickets for September 20 can also be used at no extra cost on alternative travel dates between Friday, September 18 and Tuesday, September 22 if supporters decide to change their journey.
After 4pm on Sunday, trains will be able to operate to and from London Euston again, although Avanti expects them to be extremely busy.
United's trip to Fulham is scheduled for a 4.30pm kick-off at Craven Cottage, meaning supporters travelling by rail will need to factor the disruption into both their outbound and return journeys.
FGG Says: Important warning for Manchester United fans
This is an important warning for United's travelling support because the disruption affects one of the main rail routes between Manchester and London on the same day as the Fulham fixture.
The club's advice to plan early is particularly relevant given that services are expected to be reduced and replacement transport is likely to be busy.
Supporters should check their individual journey before setting off rather than assuming their normal Manchester-to-London service will operate, with the possibility of significant delays making an early start essential.