Man Utd coach attack by Liverpool fans to prompt policy rethink by police

23 December 2023 , 22:30

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The Man United team bus arriving at Anfield (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Merseyside Police may be forced to rethink their policy over kick-off times at Anfield following the latest coach attack by Liverpool fans.

Manchester United's team vehicle was damaged by a bottle thrown by supporters outside the ground when Erik ten Hag's squad arrived for last weekend's goalless draw, which was given the green light to start at 4.30pm despite the potential for trouble.

A window on the top deck of the bus was smashed - and Liverpool moved quickly to condemn the incident. Manchester City and Real Madrid have also had problems with missile attacks from Liverpool fans, who have a tradition of arranging "coach welcomes" ahead of the club's biggest games.

Both of those incidents came before midweek Champions League ties. So there was some surprise inside the game when local police gave the go-ahead for the Premier League's most explosive fixture to kick off late on a Sunday afternoon.

Sky Sports asked for the game to be given the 4.30pm slot to maximise their TV audience. But most police forces tend to insist that high-risk games are given an earlier slot if the potential for trouble can be compounded further by giving fans more time to drink.

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The FA, Premier League and EFL felt obliged to remind fans of the need for good behaviour ahead of the busy festive programme. It said: "As we go into the busy festive period of football matches when, traditionally, many families and friends will come together to enjoy the game, the FA, Premier League and EFL are calling on supporters to act responsibly when attending fixtures.

"Following incidents at recent fixtures, fans are reminded to show their support in a positive way to ensure football matches are safe and enjoyable for all."

Simon Mullock