Police in Manchester are preparing for "serious problems" during a football derby between the city's two main teams.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police believe high-quality forged tickets are in circulation for the premiership game between City and United on Saturday.

Specialist units, including the force helicopter, will be deployed for the match at City's Maine Road ground.

Random security checks will carried out on fans in the run-up to the game by club staff accompanied by officers.

Recent convictions

Match commander, Chief Superintendent Adrian Lee said: "Forged tickets can result in serious problems, with home and away fans becoming mixed and possible overcrowding in the stands.

"This is something we take very seriously and I can assure people we will take action against those found to be in possession of forged tickets."

Twelve people have recently been convicted of violent disorder during a game between Manchester City and Coventry City, at Maine Road in January 2001.

"This sends a clear message to those who are planning on causing trouble that we do not tolerate this behaviour at any football match," said Mr Lee.