Replacement shuttle buses costing £2-a-ride are being laid on

Manchester United fans have been warned to expect severe delays getting to Old Trafford for Sunday's match against Bournemouth because Metrolink lines have been shut down for a fortnight for engineering works.

Supporters who usually travel to the game on the tram will have to find alternatives, leading to even more matchday traffic on the roads around the ground before the 2pm kick-off.

Now Metrolink bosses have issued an alert as there will be no tram services operating on the Altrincham, Trafford Park and Eccles lines. The lines were shut down on October 19 for engineering works and won't re-open until November 1.

Services on the Airport and East Didsbury lines will also be reduced, with no tram services operating through to Manchester city centre from any of these lines.

Supporters are being urged to set off for the game at least an hour earlier than normal to make the kick-off in time.

In a statement on its website, the Bee Network said: "To support football fans travelling to and from Old Trafford, a range of alternative public transport options will be available, including replacement bus services, Bee Network bus services, ticket acceptance on selected rail services and a programme of dedicated football shuttle buses.

"Allow plenty of time for travel. We suggest departing an hour earlier than normal to ensure you arrive at the ground on time."

Dedicated shuttle buses will depart every 20 minutes from Stand D at Altrincham Interchange between 10am and 12 noon, calling at Navigation Road, De Quincey Road and Stanley Mount.

They will then operate every five minutes from noon to 12.30pm, the last departure. Following the match, return services to Altrincham will depart from Chester Road outside Tesco.

For fans heading to the game from Manchester city centre, shuttle buses will operate from 10am from Piccadilly Gardens (stand G) to Old Trafford every 20 minutes, going up to every five minutes until the last shuttle at 1.25pm.

Following the match, supporters can return to the city centre from either Chester Road (outside the Ford Garage) or Wharfside Way adjacent to the E2 car park.

Single tickets on the shuttles cost £2 and buses will go on a 'load and go basis', according to transport bosses.

More buses will also be added to the 263 service. All the alternative travel options have been outlined on the Bee Network website.