United arrived in Kuala Lumpur to news of two explosions in the Indonesian capital, one of which took place at the Ritz-Carlton, the hotel the Red Devils were to be staying at for four nights from Saturday. At least nine people have been killed and 50 injured in the attacks on two luxury hotels.

After seeking advice from various parties, including the Foreign Office, United confirmed they would not be flying to Jakarta.

"Following the explosions in Jakarta - one of which was at the hotel the team were due to stay in - and based on advice received, the directors have informed the Indonesian FA that the club cannot fulfil the fixture in Jakarta on the 2009 Asia tour," said a club statement.

United were to play an Indonesia Super League XI on 20th July.

another match

The match had been a 100,000 sell-out. The club must now decide how to reorganise the tour.

"We are working on a revised itinerary outside Indonesia with the promoters and we will make a further announcement when these decisions have been made," continued the statement.

"We are deeply disappointed at not being able to visit Indonesia and thank the Indonesian FA and our fans for their support.

"Our thoughts go to all those affected by the blasts."

Unless another match can be arranged to replace the one in Jakarta, which was due to take place on Monday evening, United would appear to be left with two alternatives.

They could remain in Kuala Lumpur until Wednesday, when they are due to fly into Seoul for a match on Friday, or they could leave Malaysia on Sunday and go straight to South Korea.

A decision will have to be made quickly, although it is unlikely Monday's match will be re-organised at this late stage.

terrible news

Sir Alex Ferguson spoke of his shock at the bomb blasts, saying the attacks were "terrible news" and it was "very disappointing" the club had to call off the match.

Speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Ferguson said: "We got the news as we landed and it is very disappointing. I have never been to Indonesia before and I know the Indonesian FA have worked very hard on this. It is terrible news but we have taken what I believe to be the right decision in terms of safeguarding our players."

United's chief executive David Gill said: "We have taken the appropriate advice. We have met with the British High Commission who are highly experienced in these matters. It is not a decision we have taken lightly."

Gill was asked if advice about potential trouble was given to the club prior to the start of the pre-season trip to the Far East. He added: "We were aware of the situation but we spoke to the right people and received the correct advice."