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A Manchester United supporters’ group, The 1958, has called on fans to turn out in large numbers to protest against the club’s summer measures aimed at tackling ticket touting.

United are due to host Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday in the first Manchester derby of the season.

In spite of the scale of the match, a section of frustrated supporters still intends to make its feelings known. In August, United said an independently contracted company had identified significant and organised touting after examining account activity.

As a consequence, a number of lifelong supporters were left facing the possibility of having their tickets withdrawn.

United later apologised for how the process unfolded, admitting that a more careful approach could have been adopted.

The 1958 has urged supporters to assemble outside The Bishop Blaize pub, close to Old Trafford, in a display of unity from 3pm.

A statement said, “Manchester United supporter groups are being called upon to all stand together following reports of bans and season ticket sanctions without clear and compelling evidence always being presented.”

“For generations, match-going Reds have given their time, money and loyalty to Manchester United, home and away. That loyalty deserves to be treated with respect. This is not about one group or one individual. It is about how Manchester United treats its match-going supporters. It may not affect you today, it may not next time but that day is coming for all of us.”

“All Reds. All groups. One voice. Show the evidence. Lift the bans.”

“Supporters are now facing serious sanctions which can remove their right to attend matches. We believe nobody should face such action without being told clearly what they are accused of and being shown the evidence used to justify it.”

“This goes beyond individual supporters or supporter groups. If this approach is allowed to stand, it should concern every match-going Red. Whatever differences have existed between supporter groups in the past, this is a time to put them aside.”

“A call has gone out for Manchester United supporter groups, fans’ forum representatives, supporters’ clubs and independent fan organisations to stand together on a simple principle: if there is clear, substantive evidence of serious wrongdoing or organised ticket touting, show it.”

“No loyal supporter should be treated as guilty without being given a fair opportunity to understand and challenge the case against them.”