Michael Knighton hits out at critics after launching Man United takeover attempt

Knighton will not be put off by the doubters

Michael Knighton has brushed off those who have doubted his bold plan to force a takeover attempt of Manchester United (no this is not 1989). Some 33 years on from his infamous keepie-uppies in front of Old Trafford's Stretford End, Knighton announced this week that he is attempting to launch a fresh bid to purchase United - fronting a consortium which he hopes will finally oust the Glazers as owners. The American owners came under increasing pressure to sell United after they began the new Premier League season with a 2-1 defeat at home to Brighton on Sunday. It follows a summer in which the club have brought in just three new first team signings - not the squad overhaul some had anticipated. Knighton explained that an "offer document" was being readied and that a takeover attempt would fundamentally be a "hostile bid", with the club not officially for sale. There are, however, plenty who have doubted Knighton's ability to launch a genuine takeover attempt. On Twitter, he thanked those who have supported his efforts, urging people to ignore those who doubted his plan. 'Many thanks for ALL the brilliantly kind messages of support,' he tweeted on Wednesday. 'This is really much appreciated. I apologise for taking time to tweet back & respond to individuals but the response has been truly massive.Ignore the Trolls & nay sayers, they will always be there, they make me smile ." https://youtu.be/HOM62bSyBhk On Thursday, he tweeted a second time. 'Please don't let the Trolls get to you,' he said. 'The nasties will always be around to repeat or make up ridiculously fallacious stories about myself, even from 25 years ago. Lived with it for 30 years, has zero affect on me.' The Glazer family have been owners of United since their leveraged takeover in 2005. Throughout their time in charge, United fans have regularly protested against them. Their role in the European Super League plot was met with huge protests outside - and inside Old Trafford - with a new fan group, known as The 1958, formed earlier this year with the specific purpose of trying to force the Glazers into selling. Related links:

• Former Manchester United director Michael Knighton reveals plan to buy the club from the Glazers
• ‘Empty Old Trafford’ trends as Man Utd fans look to send Glazers a powerful message
• Man United fan group target club’s London offices for latest Glazer protest