Arsenal and Manchester United hold minute’s silence to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Arsenal held a minute’s silence before the start of the second half of their Europa League group game against FC Zurich to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

With the Group A game tied at 1-1 at half-time, both sides gathered around the centre circle to pay tribute to the Queen before the second half got underway.

The Queen, who ruled for longer than any Monarch in British history, passed away at her residence in Balmoral, Buckingham Palace announced at just after 18:30pm UK time on Thursday.

Manchester United’s Group E Europa League game against Real Sociedad went ahead as originally scheduled at 8pm UK time and tributes took place to honour the Queen.

A minute’s silence was held while both sides wore black armbands. Flags at Old Trafford also flew at half-masts.

A statement before the game read: “Following direction from the FA and UEFA, tonight’s UEFA Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad will take place as planned at Old Trafford.

“A minute’s silence will be held before kick-off which will allow the teams, match officials and everyone in attendance to pay their respects to Her Majesty, The Queen.

“Both teams will wear black armbands and the flags at Old Trafford will fly at half-mast as a sign of our utmost respect.”

West Ham’s Europa Conference League game against FCSB also went ahead as planned with a minute’s silence observed.