Police on alert for Celtic invasion

POLICE presence in Manchester will be increased tomorrow for the visit of Glasgow Celtic who take on Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The last time football fans from Glasgow descended on Manchester, for the Rangers and Zenit St Petersburg UEFA Cup Final on May 14, violence erupted.

Around 130,000 Rangers fans arrived for the final with trouble breaking out in Piccadilly Gardens when a big screen showing the match failed to work.

Several hundred people were involved in disorder and 39 police officers injured.

But previous games between United and Celtic have passed without incident.

And police chiefs say they want to ensure that the Champions League clash between the English and Scottish champions passes by safely.

Police Commander for the fixture, Supt John Graves, said: “GMP is used to policing high profile matches and this is no exception. The operation for this game will ensure the match is held with minimal disruption and that, most importantly, people can have a safe, enjoyable time here.

“We have liaised closely with both clubs in the run up to this game.

“I hope the match will be an enjoyable event for everyone who attends and that a carnival atmosphere will be created by the genuine supporters.”