Police ramp up security outside Anfield in bid to stop another bus attack ahead of Liverpool’s title clash with Man City

9 months ago 89

MANCHESTER CITY have been told the area outside Anfield will be filmed on Sunday in a bid to stop another attack on their bus.

The treble winners have seen their vehicle targeted on several occasions in recent seasons – notably when the coach was written off in April 2018.

Man City’s boss was hit by bottles and cans as it arrived at Anfield in 2018[/caption]

BT Sport showed evidence that the bus door had been shattered in the attack[/caption]

CCTV will be used to film the route of the Man City team coach on Merseyside[/caption]

City sought assurances from Merseyside Police over whether Pep Guardiola and his squad can expect a safe journey to the stadium this time.

And the force has vowed to install CCTV along the route to ensure there is no repeat ahead of the title showdown this weekend between the Reds and Cityzens.

They also say they will deploy specially trained officers on the streets in the hope it will provide some protection for the visitors.

Chief Inspector Ian Wyke of Merseyside Police said: “We are working to ensure this game can be enjoyed safely by all, whilst at the same time minimising any disruption to local residents and on the roads. “

“As with all Premier League fixtures at Anfield, we will have officers on duty at the ground and the surrounding area, both uniformed and plain clothed.

“They will be supported by CCTV, the Dog Section, mounted police and other specialist resources. We will also have a city centre policing plan in place throughout the day.”

City’s bus was first targeted as they left the stadium following a similarly important game at Anfield 10 years ago.

However the attack was much worse ahead of the Champions League quarter final first leg at Anfield six years ago – with City needing a replacement vehicle to get home.

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A bad tempered clash between the sides last season also saw damage to the visitors bus.

And rivals Manchester United also came under-fire when their squad made their way to a Prem game at Liverpool in December.

Merseyside police has also vowed to crack down on tragedy chanting after it was reported when the two teams met 18 months ago.

City boss Pep Guardiola was also targeted with coins thrown from the stands in the same game – and a crackdown on the throwing of missiles has been launched.

Wyke added: “Our policing style will be firm, fair and friendly.

“But officers will not tolerate any tragedy chanting, which became an offence under legislation last year, the throwing of missiles or the use of pyrotechnics inside or outside of the stadium.”