Fans warned as police prepare for the worst at Old Trafford

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Riot police and mounted officers will be on standby to prevent a reoccurrence of the running battles between rival hooligans when the clubs met at Old Trafford in last year's competition.

Twelve months ago: Roma fans rioted during their visit to Old Trafford last year

Fans brawled and fought a pitched battle with police making 21 arrests.

The violence came after fans of the Red Devils were indiscriminately baton-charged by police in the first leg in Rome and three away fans were stabbed.

A massive security operation in Rome last week ensured the first leg of the quarter-final in this year's competition passed off peacefully.

But the Italian side has a notorious following of hooligans, the Ultras, and around 3,800 away fans are expected to travel from the continent.

Match commander Superintendent John Graves, of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said: "Last week's first leg in Rome passed off largely peacefully and we would like to thank the supporters of both teams for making it a memorable occasion for the right reasons.

"Here, the winner will have the chance to compete in this year's Champions League semi-final.

"We expect a capacity crowd and a large number of people will travel to Manchester to watch the match.

"The police presence in the city centre and around the stadium will be increased to provide public reassurance and minimise disorder and fans are advised to arrive early.

"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. Both clubs are extremely responsible organisations, and I am confident that they know that we all carry a responsibility to ensure the game passes off peacefully.

"Europe's eyes will be on Old Trafford once again and our objective is to ensure that the event is memorable for all the right reasons."