FA Cup Championship play-off final: ‘enhanced police’ presence ahead of potential clash with Man Utd and Leeds fans

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British Transport Police (BTP) will have an “increased police presence” ahead of Manchester United’s FA Cup final due to potential overlap with Leeds United supporters over a 24-hour period.

Manchester United and Manchester City face each other at Wembley on Saturday 25 May, while the Championship play-off final takes place the following day on Sunday 26 May at the same venue.

Leeds will play in the Championship play-off final if they beat Norwich City in the semi-final second leg at Elland Road on Thursday night.

If they progress, it means there could be a potential clash between Manchester United and Leeds United supporters in the capital at the weekend.

The two clubs have one of English football’s fiercest rivalries, marked by numerous incidents of crowd trouble over the years.

A number of Manchester United fans will be in and around London on Friday and Saturday, while some Leeds United supporters are expected to travel the night before to stay in hotels ahead of their potential clash on Sunday. Kick-off for the Championship play-off final is at 15:00 BST.

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While BTP cannot go into detail about what the police presence will look like before the events, it will be more than average.

A BTP spokesman said Athletic: “The safety of rail passengers remains the force’s top priority and there will be an increased police presence and specialist resources deployed across the rail network throughout this weekend.

“If they need us, passengers can text us discreetly to 61016 or call 999 in an emergency.”

The Athletic has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment.

Manchester United reached the FA Cup final after overcoming Championship side Coventry City 4-2 on penalties following a 3-3 draw after extra time.

Leeds, meanwhile, are bidding to win promotion back to the Premier League if they beat Norwich. They will face either West Bromwich Albion or Southampton in the final.

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(Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)