Extra police for Manchester derby

Last updated : 24 January 2010 By BBC Sport

Police are planning to step up security amid fears trouble could erupt at the forthcoming derby match between Manchester United and Manchester City.The teams are due to meet on Wednesday for the semi-final second leg of the Carling Cup at Old Trafford.

An extra 75 officers will be on duty and spot checks will be made at pubs near the ground.

Police made 18 arrests at last week's match and expect to make more after viewing video cameras.

Ian Hopkins, Assistant Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, revealed talks would take place on Monday with United and City officials and the Football Association in a bid to prevent any trouble.

He said he would also be reminding the players they had a responsibility not to provoke trouble.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live's Sportsweek programme, he added: "I will be meeting with both the clubs again along with the FA tomorrow to discuss the general crowd behaviour and making sure that they understand their responsibility not to do anything that's likely to incite the crowd.

'Really passionate'

"We will be making the points very strongly that the players are professionals, they need to recognise the impact they can have on the crowd and it's going to be really passionate again on Wednesday.

"There's a lot at stake for both teams and for the fans."

The first leg, which City won 2-1, saw Tevez and United substitute Gary Neville exchange gestures.

Both players were warned about their future conduct by the Football Association.

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport