More than 20 homes were raided by Merseyside Police in Wirral and Cheshire on Wednesday.

Operation Advance followed a five-month investigation into clashes after a match between Wrexham and Tranmere Rovers in September 2002.

Officers arrested 19 people for conspiracy to cause violent disorder and are looking for four others.

After the match, on 27 September, there were clashes between supporters on a train in Rock Ferry, and later that evening in Chester city centre.

Detective Chief Inspector Bill McWilliam, senior investigating officer for the Wirral, said: "We will take firm and positive action against anyone who is suspected of organising and being involved in violent disorder and anti-social behaviour.

"In addition to the prosecution, we will be actively seeking banning orders on those individuals arrested to ensure that they are banned from attending football matches at grounds across the country."

Those arrested are being questioned at police stations across Merseyside.