“At about 11.15 redissue sellers were swooped on by police who confiscated every magazine under what they said were direct orders of the match commander, chief superintendent roberts, as they claimed the magazine was inciting racial hatred. It was made clear that sellers would be arrested if they attempted any opposition. Red Issue categorically denies any suggestion that the magazine has ever incited racial hatred (and not in a Luis Suarez type of disclaimer!). Not one seller was so much as arrested, let alone charged, which we believe tells its own story. We have been informed since the match by GMP’s sergeant Ahmed who is dealing with the matter that all the confiscated copies will be retained as ‘evidence’ and that the CPS will making a decision on Monday morning as to whether charges will be brought. (We salute the CPS’s uncharacteristic expedience.) Our loyal readers should rest assured that we fully expect to have the mags returned and trust they will be able to fully enjoy our wonderful ever-witty musings without fear of any authority’s censorship. (Provided we manage to sell enough of them against Ajax to cover our print costs….)” – Red Issue statement.

“Shortly before kick-off at today’s (Saturday, 11 February 2012) match between Manchester United and Liverpool, we were made aware that a Manchester United supporters’ fanzine being sold outside Old Trafford featured a potentially offensive image. Officers are now seizing the fanzines and in consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service we will take appropriate action against anyone either found selling this particular fanzine or provocatively displaying the image in public.” – Match commander Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts.

As if the Evra-Suarez saga needed another inflammatory angle…