Police investigate ‘hoax call’ which delayed kick-off in Sheffield United’s Boxing Day clash with Watford

SHEFFIELD UNITED’S delayed clash with Watford could have been down to a hoax call, according to reports.

Supporters were told inside Bramall Lane that kick-off would be put back 10 minutes with no further information.

Watford boss Nigel Pearson revealed after the 1-1 draw that it was down to a “security issue.”

And the write that a hoax call may have been the reason that has led to a police investigation.

It is reported that a Sheffield United spokesman claimed the matter is in the hands of the police and a number of turnstiles were temporarily closed.

Referee David Coote visited both dressing rooms before kick-off to tell the teams that it was delayed although both managers refused to suggest it had an impact on their performances.

Chris Wilder said: “I just told him (Coote) to keep us informed.

“To be perfectly honest, I’d forgotten all about it until you guys (the media) brought it up.”

Pearson added: “I don’t think the delayed kick-off affected anyone at all.

“We heard there was a potential security issue, the referee told us about it, and then told us there was going to be a 10 minute delay.”

Both sides had a share of the spoils after Oliver Norwood cancelled out Gerard Deulofeu’s opener.