He doesn't know anything. He's pretty ITK for English stuff, particularly lower leagues, don't think he's well connected for anything coming from abroad.
It doesn't surprise me, as his attitude appears to be that he and his mates should have priority over those that have attended away games more regularly.
You may well sign that contract depending on what the market was like, what else you had on, rates being offered etc. The whole point is, sometimes you have to take the few opportunities that are available.
If done properly, it should always be an "initial allocation" of a smaller amount, see how they sell in the first day or two and then the club has the opportunity to make a decision on the remainder. It's never clear how the clubs agree the process behind the scenes though.
Cheap trains are now available for this game on most routes.
NB - Looks like no cheap fares back to London after the game direct from Piccadilly - which is oftern the case when United are at home with a 3pm kick off.