Leeds United v Manchester United: extra police patrol match

Police were on patrol in and around Leeds United's Elland Road ground

Hundreds of officers were on patrol as Leeds United played arch rivals Manchester United in the Carling Cup on Tuesday night, police have said.

About 3,000 Manchester United fans were expected to travel to the sell-out game at Elland Road in Leeds.

Police said they hoped the operation would keep trouble to a minimum.

"Hundreds of officers will be on patrol around the ground and in the city centre to ensure supporters stay safe," said a West Yorkshire Police spokesman.

Ban threat

Ch Supt Marc Callaghan, who was match commander for the policing operation, said: "This is the biggest fixture of the season so far, especially because of the great rivalry between the two clubs and the fact that there has to be one winner on the night.

"Our priority is to ensure everyone can enjoy the match safely by intervening early and dealing with issues in a positive manner.

"By dealing with any issues before they escalate, we can ensure the only talking points at the end of the match are the football."

West Yorkshire Police had earlier warned potential troublemakers that its Football Banning Unit was the "most proactive team in the country", with 58 bans secured since its official launch in 2008 and nine bans already secured this season.

Police said any supporters who become involved in disorder were likely to receive similar injunctions against them, preventing them from attending football matches in the UK and Europe.