Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has called for unity among Manchester United fans following the storming of Old Trafford that saw their game against Liverpool called off.
Solskjaer said fans had a right to protest against the Glazers, United's controversial owners, but condemned the violent scenes that saw a pitch invasion and left six police officers injured.
United boss Solskjaer admitted he was in a “difficult” position, given his allegiance with the fans and his relationship with the Florida-based Glazers, his employers.
Ahead of tonight's Europa League semi-final second leg tie at Roma, which United lead 6-2, Solskjaer promised disillusioned fans there will be better communication from the Glazers.
“I’m hopeful that, in time, we can unite and come together,” said Solskjaer. “Frictions and challenges are sometimes good, sometimes it can move things forward.
“The last few weeks have been difficult. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to see that we have challenges and frictions, and that things that have to be dealt with, with better communication.
“It’s a difficult position for me to be in, this, because I've got to focus on the football.
“But I’ve had backing, I’ve been put in charge and I'm responsible for results and football matters.”
“As I've said before, we have to listen. We have to hear the fans’ voice. It’s everyone’s right to protest, but it has to be in a civilised and peaceful manner.
“Unfortunately, when you break in and when police officers get injured, scarred for life, that’s one step too far, it’s not about showing your opinions any more.
Solskjaer revealed he had received a personal apology from the Glazers over the doomed European Super League plan, which re-ignited United fans' opposition to the US owners and led to Sunday's mass protests.
“We know, as a club, we need to communicate better,” said Solskjaer. “I’ve been communicating with the owners and I’ve got an apology, personally.
“They've apologised to the fans about how this came out.
“I’ve always had a good relationship with them, they listen to me and they do listen to the fans. I’m sure there will be better communication coming.
“My focus has to be on what's going to happen in the next three weeks on the pitch. Then let’s see.
“Everyone has a human right to be heard, but it has to be peaceful. It's not been helped by certain individuals.”
United's players were trapped in their hotel on Sunday, unable to leave for Old Trafford, because of the number of protestors camped outside.
Playmaker Bruno Fernandes said: “For us it was hard because we want to play football. This is what it's about for us.
“But this happened. The fans think that was the best way for them, they did it, but we have nothing to say about that. Our focus is on playing football and doing the best for the club.”
