Sarah Spina-Matthewsin Manchester
PA MediaPolice have warned of an increased presence of officers across Greater Manchester for Sunday’s Manchester derby.
Manchester City take on Manchester United at the Etihad stadium on Sunday at 16:30 BST in the first Manchester derby of the Premier League season.
Greater Manchester Police said months of planning had gone into policing thee event after 16 people were arrested when the teams played each other at the Etihad last season.
The force said “a comprehensive policing operation” would be in place at the stadium for the day, as well as on public transport, in Manchester city centre and other places where fans were expected to gather.
Ch Supt Colette Rose said: “Our aim is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the match safely and without disruption.
“We encourage anyone attending the match to speak to police officers or stadium security if they witness or experience any form of abuse or criminal behaviour.”
She said anyone who has concerns while travelling on public transport should speak to police.