million) - benefiting from additional games from cup
successes, the new Nike partnership and hosting of Champions
League Final
Group operating profit before player amortisation and
disposals and exceptionals up 45% to £50.0 million (2002:
£34.5 million)
Profit before tax increased by 22% to £39.3 million (2002:
£32.3 million) - gains from player disposals down £4.5m from
2002
Earnings per share up 20% to 11.5p (2002 9.6p)
Total basic dividend up 19% to 2.50p (2002: 2.10p) - the
12th consecutive year of progressively increased dividend
Special dividend of 1.5p based on strong operating result
and tax provision release (2002: 1.0p)
Debt free balance sheet, net cash of £28.6 million (2002:
£0.9 million net cash)
David Gill, Chief Executive, commented: "These results
reflect the significant success that Manchester United has
achieved both on and off the field.
"We have continued to leverage our global brand through our
partnerships with Nike, Vodafone and our Platinum sponsors
and to grow our knowledge of our fan base. Looking ahead, we
will maintain our focus on achieving playing success while
delivering continued strong performances from our commercial
operations."