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Manchester ARTICLES

Police ready for football clashes

03rd January 2010

Extra police have been drafted in for the third round FA Cup tie at Old Trafford between bitter rivals Manchester United and Leeds United. The clubs meet for the first time in five years but police say they are ready for any outbreak of violence.

It is predicted that more than 8,000 Leeds fans will descend on the city for the 1300 GMT kick-off.

Match commander Supt John Graves warned that anyone arriving at the stadium drunk could face police action.

He also urged anyone who does not have a ticket to stay away from the ground.

"It has been several years since these clubs met and this is a highly-anticipated fixture for both sets of fans.

"Everyone connected with this event has a responsibility to do all they can to make this a safe and enjoyable occasion, especially local businesses and travel operators.

"In recent weeks we have been asking local pubs and off-licences to limit their sales and opening times, and advising coach operators of the dangers of transporting drunken fans. "

Both clubs have liaised with the Football Association and local police forces in an attempt to stop trouble, he said.

"Of the tens of thousands of fans who will be watching the game, it is only a small minority who may try to cause trouble and spoil it for everyone, and we will not hesitate to make arrests of troublemakers," he added.

Source: BBC