Premier League - Extra police for Wigan-United

Eurosport - Fri, 09 May 11:28:00 2008

Extra police will be on duty for Manchester United's final Premier League game of the season away to Wigan on Sunday.

FOOTBALL: Police officers - 0

Greater Manchester Police are expected to double the number of officers they provide for normal match days in anticipation of a large number of United fans travelling to Wigan even if they do not have a ticket for the match.

Latics chairman Dave Whelan fears that a large number of people without tickets may congregate outside the stadium or in the town ready for a celebration should United claim the title, but GMP Chief Superintendent Lee Bruckshaw says his officers are well equipped to cope with any eventuality on the day.

He said: "GMP has a great record of policing football matches and other large scale events.

"We are aware of the demand for tickets and are expecting a much larger crowd than usual.

"We have prepared thoroughly and will have enough officers on hand to police the anticipated number of visitors.

"While we do not discuss staffing levels, I am satisfied we have sufficient cover to police all eventualities and to ensure the game and any post-match celebrations pass off without trouble."

The Premier League will share the policing bill with Wigan in light of the extra number of officers on duty.

Sporting Life / Eurosport