"At approximately 10:00am on Monday 28 November a suspicious device was discovered in a lift at the Reebok Stadium.
"This was identified by a member of staff and Greater Manchester Police were notified immediately.
"Greater Manchester Police were sufficiently concerned that they contacted the Bomb Disposal Unit and advised an immediate and complete evacuation of the Reebok Stadium, De Vere Whites Hotel and the Reebok offices.
"The Bomb Disposal Unit attended the incident promptly and instigated a thorough examination at the scene.
"The investigation eventually confirmed the device to be a hoax, albeit deliberately planted with malicious intent.
"The device was removed, and along with CCTV footage, will now be forensically examined by Greater Manchester Police.
"Greater Manchester Police regard this incident as very serious and will do everything possible to find those responsible.
"Members of the public who have information about this incident are urged to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 6633."