Man Utd news: Mark Hughes on Old Trafford plans

Former Manchester United forward Mark Hughes described the club’s new stadium plans as “quite radical,” but the current Carlisle manager understands a desire to upgrade from Old Trafford.

On Tuesday, Sir Jim Ratcliffe unveiled his plan to build the biggest stadium in the UK,an “iconic” new 100,000-seater ground close to Old Trafford.

It has had mixed reaction partly as it would mean Manchester United leaving the home that they have held since 1910.

Now Carlisle manager, Hughes told BBC Radio Cumbria: “From an ex-player’s point of view, I have fantastic memories [of Old Trafford] and that’s something that will never leave me.

“The stadium itself clearly needs to be updated. I think that’s a given and I think everybody accepts and understands that. They look quite radical plans but I’m sure it would be a fantastic stage to ply your trade.

“There will always be emotions when clubs decide to move from grounds. As long as the feeling within the ground is replicated, which they try and do now. They’re more aware of the acoustics and the dynamics of the place so that will be built in, I’m sure. It’s not like the soulless new grounds that have been the case on occasions when other teams have changed.

“It will be interesting. Let’s hope they [complete] it in five years. It took me five years to build my house, so who knows how they’re going to do it!”