Operation for Manchester derby between City and United

Several arrests were made after the teams met in January

Police have put an alcohol exclusion zone in place in Manchester to try to prevent trouble at the derby game.

Manchester City and Manchester United meet at Eastlands on Saturday at 1245 BST for the league tie.

No alcohol can be consumed between the city centre and the stadium and extra police patrols are on duty, Greater Manchester Police said.

Several arrests were made following the two teams' Carling Cup meeting in January.

Entry refused

A statement from Greater Manchester Police read: "Part of GMP's operation is to stop potential troublemakers spoiling the day and responding to anti-social behaviour quickly and robustly.

"Anyone caught with alcohol on the streets within the alcohol exclusion zone, stretching from the city centre to the stadium, will have it confiscated.

"In addition, anyone arriving at the stadium under the influence of excess alcohol will be refused entry.

"There will be additional police patrols in place in the city centre and around the ground to deal with the large number of fans who are attending and officers will be visiting pubs where the match is being shown live on TV."

Assistant chief constable Ian Hopkins said the force had been working with Manchester City on the operation.

"Our main aim is to ensure it is an enjoyable experience for all fans", he added.