Gunners beef up security

ALEX FERGUSON has welcomed the extra security Arsenal intend to provide at the Emirates Stadium for Manchester United’s visit today.

Ferguson was unhappy at the treatment he received last year, believing Arsenal supporters have been allowed to get too close to the United dugout.

After an internal investigation, the Gunners have reviewed their security arrangements and will provide increased stewarding for Ferguson and his coaching staff.

Arsenal will station another three stewards immediately behind the dugout, with an ’ejection squad’ standing by to pounce if fans continue to misbehave.

“It is quite right they have improved the security,” said Ferguson. “Last year was pretty unsavoury. In fact, I think it was nasty. It should not happen when you build a modern stadium like that. It is too open for my liking. It is a weakness in the planning that you don’t provide safety for the visiting substitutes and staff.”

Ferguson last night also urged United fans to stop abusing Arsene Wenger in chants too.

“I hope it stops,” he said. “There has been a focus on fans’ chants, not just towards Arsene Wenger but other managers too. It is ridiculous. The police should be doing more.

“When you consider the chants that have been levelled at us about Munich you would think United fans would understand very well the sensitivity of the situation. “I don’t agree with it at all. Hopefully the fans appreciate it comes to me too.”