Cleveland Police issue this warning to Middlesbrough and Leeds United fans after additional measures are put in place

Middlesbrough will host Leeds United at the Riverside on Wednesday night.

Cleveland Police have confirmed they will receive additional support when Middlesbrough face Leeds United at the Riverside on Wednesday evening.

Last season’s fixture was marred by trouble as supporters clashed after the full-time whistle.

Leeds are expected to bring around 4,400 fans to Teesside for the Championship fixture, with the two clubs competing at opposite ends of the table.

A statement from Cleveland Police said: “Plans have been put in place and there will be additional support from the mounted sections at Northumbria Police and West Yorkshire Police and British Transport Police.”

Match commander, Superintendent Sharon Cooney, added: “We’re hoping for an enjoyable game for all those attending, although we’re not ignorant that there have been incidents of disorder at previous Middlesbrough FC and Leeds United games and we are prepared for that should that happen.

“No matter how many tickets are allocated to the visiting side, there are always a minority who attend matches intent on causing disorder. We will look to deal with this appropriately and if behaviour warrants it, we may ask the fans to hold back at the end of the match. Refreshments will remain available should this happen and there will be plenty of time for people to catch the last trains.

“Our primary aim is to ensure that safety of everyone in and around the area and to facility a friendly and enjoyable day for all the genuine fans and their families who are attending.”

The statement from Cleveland Polie went on to say: “There will be dogs trained to search for drugs and pyrotechnics will be at the stadium and anyone found to be in possession of either will not be permitted to enter and risk facing criminal proceedings.

“A dispersal order will be in place in the Middlesbrough town centre area including the Riverside Stadium, giving police additional powers to disperse any groups who may be causing a disturbance for a period of 24 hours.

“Leeds United fans who are travelling to Middlesbrough prior to or after the game are encouraged to gather at Spensley’s Emporium on Albert Road.”