Appeal to identify big-match thugs

GALLERY of shame . . . the thugs police want to identify

POLICE are appealing for help to identify nine men in connection with a violent disturbance at last month’s UEFA Europa League clash between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Disorder broke out in the East Stand during the second leg of the match on March 17. A young child caught in the crossfire between fans suffered minor injuries after being hit by a plastic seat, and otherincidents were reported before and after the match.

Two men have been charged in connection to an offensive banner that was placed over a bridge on the M602. Ainsley Meanock (24), of Millbank Close, Oldham, and Jay Cornforth (20), of Ashton Old Road, Manchester, will face a public order charge at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 25.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Warriner said: “A number of arrests have already been made, but now we need the public’s help to ensure those people capable of carrying out such violence are no longer welcome at our football grounds. Please take a few minutes to view them.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161-856 7525, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.