Manchester United have opted against using government money to furlough non-paying staff during the coronavirus crisis.

Ed Woodward, United’s executive vice-chairman, told approximately 900 full-time members of staff that they will continue to be paid as normal in an internal e-mail.

The club confirmed that they would not make use of the state’s job retention scheme, which guarantees 80 per cent of wages up to £2,500-per-month of companies affected by the virus.

United become the second Premier League club to announce they will not put staff on furlough following similar promises from Manchester City and Burnley.

Meanwhile, top-flight clubs who have taken up the government’s offer have received criticism, most notably Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool reversed that decision on Monday night, with chief executive Peter Moore saying the club were “truly sorry” and was now exploring “alternative means”.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool's announcement influences the four Premier League clubs still committed to furloughing - Tottenham, Newcastle United, Norwich City and Bournemouth.

United, meanwhile, will also extend goodwill payments for around 950 non-match day casual workers until 1 June, covering their average weekly income.

More than 3,000 match day casual workers are already due to receive goodwill payments for remaining home Premier League fixtures which were postponed by the outbreak.

The club assured staff to keep work flexible to fit around care responsibilities for family and friends during the lockdown and encouraged employees with reduced work time to volunteer with the NHS or within local communities.

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