A HUGE police operation is planned to prevent trouble at Sunday's match between City and United.

Officers will be out in force in Manchester city centre and around the City of Manchester Stadium, which hosts the 150th derby.

An alcohol exclusion zone will be enforced between the city centre and the ground.

Any alcohol inside the zone will be seized. Any supporters thought to be drunk will not be allowed into the ground. Police will also visit city-centre pubs showing the match live on satellite TV.

An estimated 43,000 supporters expected in the ground. Police have warned them to travel early because of traffic disruption, particularly around the ground and on the Mancunian Way. The match kicks off at 1.30pm

Rivalry between the fans has always been keen but has been heightened because of events on and off the pitch in the last few months.

United come to the match as reigning Premier League and Champions League winners.

But City supporters celebrated impressive victories in both last season's derby games.

And Blue fans believe they can rival their Red counterparts for trophies since the takeover of the club by Sheikh Mansour in August, which made City the richest club in the world. No serious trouble has marred recent derby games and police are determined to keep it that way.

They promise to 'stop potential troublemakers from spoiling the day and respond to any incidents of anti- social behaviour quickly and robustly'.

Chief Supt Gerry Donnellan, the police match commander, said: "Our main aim is to ensure it is an enjoyable experience for all the fans.

"Anyone who causes trouble will be dealt with which may mean they do not see the game. This is a high-profile fixture and we have been working closely with Manchester City FC to ensure the day passes off peacefully."