UNITED's travelling fans seem to win few friends wherever they go, but you can't criticise them for ingenuity in getting a cheap deal, writes Chris Sudlow.

Since the club's first ventures into Europe more than 40 years ago many fans have preferred to travel under their own steam rather than on organised trips.

The cost factor as much as a desire to see the world, or rather the European soccer version of it, from their own perspective has played a big part.

Next Wednesday United return to Champions League duty and play in Nantes, France. The club has arranged an excellent trip option of coach travel (£125 with overnight, or £85), one day flight (£210) or two-day flight with four-star hotel included (£360). Match tickets extra.

Many have taken advantage of this and will no doubt have a great time.

But other experienced Euro-Reds have taken the other alternative and organised their own trip.

Some Bolton-based friends have mine have done just this with the following itinerary after being very quick on the draw for Internet offers. Prices are correct, because I have seen the tickets!

MONDAY: Depart Manchester on a Ryan Air promotional fight to Dublin (fare £4). Night out in Dublin, hotel £25.

TUESDAY: Ryan Air promotional flight to Paris £1.80p. Train to Nantes (£30 return). Hotel in Nantes £20.

WEDNESDAY: Watch match in the evening, overnight train back to Paris, night out in this most glamorous of cities. Hotel £21.

THURSDAY: Early morning Ryan Air cheapo back to Dublin (£7), onward flight back to Manchester, by now the price has gone up - to £11!

TOTAL COST: £119.80p.

And I bet they have a good time - whatever the result!