Manchester United report financial upturn

Manchester United's owners have strengthened their financial position despite the protests against them after releasing figures showing increases in revenue and profits.

With a group of financiers called the Red Knights confirming their interest in a possible takeover, the Glazer family can point to a rising turnover and profits at the club.

The figures for the six months up to December show turnover up 19% to £144.7million from £121.7million for the equivalent period in 2008.

The club's debt dropped from £538.1million to £507.5million and there were increases recorded in matchday revenues, TV money - particularly from the Champions League - and commercial revenue.

Media revenues have increased 33% from £40.3million to £53.4million and commercial revenues up 16% from £33.5million to £38.7million.

The total debt of the Red Football Ltd, the Glazers' holding company for Manchester United, was registered at £716.5million at the start of the year.

It has led to a renewed protest of the Glazer family's ownership of the club.

In the latest development, Goldman Sachs economist Jim O'Neill - acting in a personal capacity - lawyer Mark Rawlinson and merchant banker Keith Harris have launched the Red Knight group and discussed a potential takeover.