A Manchester United supporter who was kicked out of Old Trafford on Sunday for allegedly racially abusing Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is facing the possibility of a life ban and potential police action.

Security personnel ejected the fan after being informed that the person had reputedly shouted “you f------ black c---” at the right-back.

The incident is believed to have occurred during the first half of the match close to the players’ executive boxes in the Stretford End.

It came at the end of a week in which England’s black players were subjected to racist abuse in Sofia during their Euro 2020 qualifier against Bulgaria and Haringey Borough walked off the pitch in their FA Cup fourth qualifying-round tie against Yeovil Town on Saturday after alleged racial abuse.

Supporters who witnessed the incident at Old Trafford are believed to have immediately called for stewards to remove the fan. United have launched an investigation and could issue an indefinite ban if the fan is found guilty of racist abuse.

The club have also notified Greater Manchester Police about the incident. GMP have been contacted for comment.

In a statement, a United spokesman said: “We are aware of an incident where an individual in the home section has allegedly engaged in racial abuse. The individual was identified and ejected from the stadium. We are currently investigating the matter as a priority.”