United's popular marketing director Peter Draper has left Old Trafford to set up his own company.  This is another addition to the ever increasing problems off the field, and behind the scenes, at Old Trafford.

Draper joined the Red Devils in 1999 after holding a similar position at Umbro but, following United's recent £56million shirt deal with American insurance giant AIG, has opted to pursue other avenues.

While there is bound to be speculation over the precise reasons for his departure so soon after the exit of club doctor Mike Stone, United insist relations remain cordial and Draper was at the official club party at Old Trafford on Sunday.

United refused to comment on what prompted Draper's decision to walk away, but the Glazer brothers Joel, Avi and Bryan are now involved in the day-to-day running of the club and Draper's exit is likely to be a cost-cutting exercise.