Manchester United chief executive David Gill has defended the club's ticket price hikes as they attempt to stay competitive at Europe's top table.

He said the club's revenues come from three core sources: ticket prices, media deals and commercial sponsorship, and its retail division.

"The players recognise that they really are pivotal to the club's success. They can demand high fees, and that's not going to change," he said.

"The team creates the flair which perpetuates our media coverage, which in turn reassures our sponsors that they are getting the best possible media exposure around the world.

"Our vision is to be the best club both on and off the pitch, and we are not going to be criticised for constantly trying to achieve that."

Mr Gill added that 8,000 of Old Trafford's 76,000 seats are classed as 'executive' and these contribute around 40 per cent of all match day revenue.

He reasserted the Glazer family's commitment to the club and said that they are looking to enhance the Manchester United brand - particularly in America and Asia.