Fans have been warned it is an offence to enter Hampden drunk

The world champions travel to a sold out Hampden on Saturday and police said safety was their priority.

The game has been billed as one of Scotland's biggest, with thousands of fans descending on Glasgow.

Strathclyde Police Assistant Chief Constable John Corrigan has called for fans to "drink sensibly on the day".

Mr Corrigan, the man in charge of policing on the day, said: "It is an offence to enter the stadium while drunk and anyone trying to do so will not be allowed in.

"Why run the risk of missing one of the biggest days in Scottish football?"

A ticket cordon will be set up around Hampden Park.

Among the events being organised to celebrate the match is a party on Glasgow Green for 7,000 people.

'Right reasons'

The sell-out event, organised by Glasgow City Council, will feature a bar, live music and Braveheart re-enactments.

Pubs and bars all over the country are expected to be packed for the clash.

Mr Corrigan added: "It is our priority to ensure that not only do fans get to and from the game safely but that everyone, including the shoppers and businesses, enjoy the day and remember it for all the right reasons."

The Italy clash is Scotland's last match of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

A win would see Scotland qualify and make it to Austria and Switzerland next summer - the country's first major football tournament since the 1998 World Cup.