Enterprising Latics selling tickets at 1,000% mark-up

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has done all that he can to make sure United have a super comfy stay in Greater Manchester this Sunday. Firstly, he cancelled a mid-week rugby game to make sure the surface was all lovely and smooth. Then, instead of sounding a war cry to his title-hungry opponents, he has told Sky Sports he would be ‘delighted’ to see Steve Bruce take over from Alex Ferguson this summer, should he retire.

Fergie and Whelan already have a solid relationship - the United gaffer was the guest of honour when the JJB opened in 1999, and according to various made up sources, the chairman sometimes lets the red-faced Scotsman tickle his belly like a cat.

Now, the Wigan supporters are doing their bit to bring Alex Ferguson his tenth title. According to The Guardian, Manchester Utd’s 4,928 allocation sold out last month, but Wigan expect as many as 20,000 extra Red Devils to be locked outside the ground. Accordingly, home fans have been selling their £25 adult tickets for at least £250 a pop, which would more than cover the cost of a season ticket next year. Desperate United fans are currently paying as much as £450 per ticket on eBay for the chance to see their side clinch the title.

If enough Wigan fans give in to this sorely-tempting offer, much of the 25,000 capacity could be joining Steve Bruce and Dave Whelan in cheering for United.

(Paddy Power are offering 25/1 for Steve Bruce to be seen on TV cheering a Man Utd goal. Them’s remarkably short odds for what should be completely inconceivable.)