Manchester United have barred players from stopping to sign autographs at one of the entrances to the club’s training ground amid safety fears.

A large sign has been erected near the rear entrance to their Carrington base telling supporters that players are no longer permitted to stop in their cars due to “danger on the road”.

Large crowds of autograph hunters regularly congregate near what is a blind bend at the junction of Sinderland Lane and Birch Road, from where the training base can be accessed, and United are increasingly concerned about the threat that poses to those fans’ safety.

It is not uncommon for groups of as many as 50 supporters to gather in the summer holidays especially and the club have taken the decision that the situation poses too great a safety risk to be allowed to continue.

The large crowds also present issues for the local farm and residents that United are mindful of.

The newly erected sign reads: “Players are not permitted to stop and sign autographs due to danger on the road. No congregating.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the United manager, and forward Daniel James were pictured leaning out of their cars to stop to sign autographs on Wednesday.