Almost 40 arrests made as Rangers visit Manchester United
More than 450 officers were on duty for the Europa League match
Police arrested 39 people as Rangers fans visited Old Trafford for their Europa League clash with Manchester United on Thursday night.
Over 70,000 football fans were in town for the game.
More than 450 officers were deployed through the night with 39 arrests being made in total – the vast majority being before the game.
Greater Manchester Police made 26 arrests in the Ancoats area of the city after some disorder broke out just after 6pm, including flares being set off.
Further arrests were made on suspicion of drug offences, drunk and disorderly behaviour, tragedy chanting, and assault of a steward.
The force says it worked with both football clubs and their respective supporters’ groups in the months leading up to the game to ensure the match passed safely with as little disruption to the wider public as possible.
Thankfully, after the game there were no further incidents outside the stadium as supporters headed home.
Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes, match commander for the game, said:
“These high-profile fixtures are always exciting occasions, but they also naturally present challenges to ensure that the thousands of spectators can enjoy the game safely and to minimise disruption for the wider public.
“Last night, we did see some incidents before the game which required a prompt response from our officers to prevent any further disorder and harm. Arrests were made and further disorder was prevented.
“An operation like this takes weeks, if not months, of planning with both clubs and all our local partners. Generally the crowds have been really well behaved and the vast majority have had a safe and enjoyable time watching the game in Manchester.”
Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.