Police on alert for Man Utd-Leeds clash

A huge security operation will be in place today for Manchester United’s clash with bitter rivals Leeds, police said.

The two clubs will meet for the first time in five years for the hotly-anticipated FA Cup third round tie at Old Trafford, which kicks off at 1pm.

Officers are on high alert for trouble, with more than 8,000 Leeds fans expected to descend on Manchester for the clash.

Greater Manchester Police have spent several weeks preparing for the encounter, which they are treating as “high risk”.

Supt John Graves, the match commander, warned that anyone arriving at the stadium drunk is likely to 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. Our aim is to help make the occasion a safe and enjoyable one for everyone involved,” he said.

“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 police forces in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire 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.