Premier League champions Manchester United last night warned junior soccer teams to look out for a suspected paedophile who is posing as one of their club scouts.

The man in his 60s has told boys he can help them get into the Old Trafford Youth Academy.

Police were alerted after a parent challenged him at a game in Poynton, Cheshire, and he gave a fake phone number.

United urged officials to ask for official ID cards before letting a scout near young players.

The man, who has also approached youngsters in Manchester and County Durham, has a teardrop tattoo on his cheek.

The FA also warns: "Managers must ensure that all children are collected by a parent."