Evastar
Inactive User
Tough security measures are in place for the 4,500 Rangers fans travelling to Greater Manchester for the Champions League clash against Manchester United.
Police are determined to prevent any repeat of trouble which broke out in 2008 when supporters visited in their thousands for the Uefa Cup final.
Only fans who travel with official club coaches are being allowed tickets for the group match at Old Trafford.
The coaches will stop in Wigan before a police escort takes them to the ground.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said he hoped the large scale operation would reassure people there would be no repeat of previous trouble.
Extra officers
"I don't think it's an over reaction," he said.
"I think it's a measured plan with both clubs, who I have to say have been excellent and have put safety ahead of commercial interests in the restrictions that we have asked for around tickets.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins urged fans to drink responsibly
"Undoubtedly that is going to lead to fewer ticket sales, but I think it is about reassuring people that we mean business and we've got confidence that this plan will work."
An extra 250 officers will be on duty around the city for the duration of the group-stage match.
As part of attempts to combat any drunken behaviour, police are urging off-licences to close early and asking pubs and bars to make sure they have door staff.
Supporters will be free to explore Wigan, but they are being urged to keep drinking to a minimum.
"I would ask those people to behave responsibly and not drink too much," added Mr Hopkins.
"The real hook for them is that Rangers have been absolutely clear that if people are drunk or have drunk excessively, when they get on the coaches they won't be given their match tickets - so it is in their best interests to behave sensibly."
Manchester United v Rangers kicks off at Old Trafford at 1945 BST.
BBC News - Tough security for Manchester United v Rangers clash
Police are determined to prevent any repeat of trouble which broke out in 2008 when supporters visited in their thousands for the Uefa Cup final.
Only fans who travel with official club coaches are being allowed tickets for the group match at Old Trafford.
The coaches will stop in Wigan before a police escort takes them to the ground.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said he hoped the large scale operation would reassure people there would be no repeat of previous trouble.
Extra officers
"I don't think it's an over reaction," he said.
"I think it's a measured plan with both clubs, who I have to say have been excellent and have put safety ahead of commercial interests in the restrictions that we have asked for around tickets.
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins urged fans to drink responsibly
"Undoubtedly that is going to lead to fewer ticket sales, but I think it is about reassuring people that we mean business and we've got confidence that this plan will work."
An extra 250 officers will be on duty around the city for the duration of the group-stage match.
As part of attempts to combat any drunken behaviour, police are urging off-licences to close early and asking pubs and bars to make sure they have door staff.
Supporters will be free to explore Wigan, but they are being urged to keep drinking to a minimum.
"I would ask those people to behave responsibly and not drink too much," added Mr Hopkins.
"The real hook for them is that Rangers have been absolutely clear that if people are drunk or have drunk excessively, when they get on the coaches they won't be given their match tickets - so it is in their best interests to behave sensibly."
Manchester United v Rangers kicks off at Old Trafford at 1945 BST.
BBC News - Tough security for Manchester United v Rangers clash
