Manchester United are set to take on Championship side Coventry in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley but there are some concerns that there could be potential for clashes with supporters of Liverpool.
The British Transport Police are set to have an “enhanced policing presence” ahead of Manchester United’s FA Cup semi-final in a bid to avoid any unsavoury clashes with Liverpool fans.
The Red Devils take on Championship side Coventry on Sunday, April 21 at Wembley Stadium. That fixture in particular is only considered a ‘medium-risk’.
However, any chance meetings with rival supporters have forced the authorities to take action. United’s fierce rivals Liverpool are also in action in London on that day.
Jurgen Klopp’s side take on Fulham at Craven Cottage an hour later in the Premier League. That game was rescheduled last month to be broadcast on TV.
The overlap between the two fixtures has raised concern about potential clashes between United and Liverpool fans. Rail services from both Manchester Piccadilly and Liverpool Lime Street both arrive at London Euston ahead of the two games.
The BTP have refused to confirm what their specific plans are, but there will be an ‘additional’ presence. Speaking to The Athletic, a spokesperson said: “The safety of rail passengers remains the force’s top priority and there will be an enhanced policing presence and specialist resources deployed across the rail network throughout the weekend.”
Should United overcome Coventry, then they could be in line for a rematch with fierce rivals Manchester City. The two sides faced off in the FA Cup final last term – Pep Guardiola’s side lifting the trophy after a brace from Ilkay Gundogan.
City take on Chelsea in the other semi-final the day before. Away from football, the London Marathon will also take place on Sunday, April 21. It’s not just the semi-finals that have caused scheduling headaches though.
The FA have already had to come up with an emergency plan should Coventry find a way beyond United and into the final. The final is due to take place on Saturday, May 25.
The Championship playoff final is due to take place at Wembley just 24 hours later. As it stands, there is a very real prospect that Coventry could have a ticket to both.
Mark Robins’ men currently sit outside of the playoff places but a late run could see them secure a top-six spot. Coventry are four points behind Norwich with a game in hand.
The Sky Blues are back in action on Tuesday evening as they take on fellow promotion chasers Southampton at St Mary’s. They come into that game off the back of a brilliant 2-1 victory over Leeds United.
