Mystery surrounds the future of a pub popular with Manchester United fans.

The Trafford, on Chester Road near the Reds’ ground, is a well-known haunt for supporters before they head into Old Trafford.

But the venue, which only opens on match days, has not been open for a number of home games over the past few weeks, including before Wednesday’s League Cup match against West Ham.

Fans of the watering hole contacted the M.E.N. after being puzzled as to why it has suddenly stopped opening.

There are no for sale signs on the building, or notices on any of the doors.

The M.E.N. has tried to contact a former manager of the pub, along with the venue itself, but has not received a response.

We asked nearby pubs and businesses, with one saying they believe the pub is ‘closed for good’.

Trafford council said there is no issue with its current alcohol licence.

The venue is popular as it is just a stone’s throw away from Sir Matt Busby Way and the ground itself.

It hit the headlines last year when it banned half and half scarves from its premises.

It vowed to refuse entry to any fans wearing them before United home games by putting up a sign outside which read: ‘No half & half scarves! No exceptions!! Please place them in the bin and clear your conscience’.

Supporters have taken to social media in a bid to find out more.

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VintageYanited tweeted: “Anyone know what’s happened to the Trafford pub?”

Andrew Beswick added: “Why’s the Trafford pub shut?”

Other pubs frequented by fans before the match include the Bishop Blaize, where United chant writer Pete Boyle often helps get the singing started, as well as Sam Platts in Trafford Wharf Road.

These more established boozers have been given added competition following the opening of Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs’ Hotel Football development, right next to Old Trafford, at the other end of Sir Matt Busby Way to The Trafford.

The venue opens its Old Trafford Supporters Club to fans on match days, charging a £1 entry fee which is donated to charity and allowing fans to get together and enjoy a drink.