Fans will first head to Frankfurt

They will not have powers of arrest but will have an advisory role.

The Fifa World Cup begins in June and tens of thousands of fans are expected to follow England to Germany.

Talks are under way over whether UK police officers on duty at the tournament will be able to arrest football hooligans on German soil.

"The Government, police and supporters groups are working hard with the German authorities to make the World Cup a trouble-free tournament," Home Office Minister Paul Goggins said.

I think that the more the German police can learn from the way British police have handled British fans in recent years, the better Malcolm Clarke Football Supporters' Federation

"The preparations for this year's tournament are extensive and for the first time are likely to include uniformed English and German police officers working side by side.

"Football disorder remains a lingering menace and that is why we want to minimise the risks and provide better communication about travelling English fans.

"Football banning orders are one of the key tools we are using in the ongoing fight to keep Germany free from any travelling troublemakers."

Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Steve Thomas will lead England's anti-hooligan operations in Germany, it was announced on Wednesday.

Productive liaison

Thirty-two teams from six continents are due to take part in the tournament. Drawn in Group B, England play their first match against Paraguay on June 10 in Frankfurt.

And the presence of German police has been welcomed by England fans.

Malcolm Clarke, who chairs the Football Supporters' Federation, said the move would be "a good thing".

He went on: "I think that the more the German police can learn from the way British police have handled British fans in recent years, the better."

And, when asked whether he expected the World Cup to be trouble-free, Mr Clarke said: "If it isn't then it won't be for want of doing all the right preparation.