'Thugs' caught on film

Mar 21 2008 By Mark Cowan

THESE are the two men police want to trace in connection with violence which marred a Premiership football clash between Manchester City and Blues.

Police said fighting broke out between travelling Birmingham City fans and the home supporters following the game at Manchester City's Eastlands stadium last October.

Officers had to break up the fight outside the away supporters' exit.

Greater Manchester Police have now released the images of men they want to trace and today called on the public to name them.

Police said the two men pictured are believed to be Birmingham City fans.

PC Sarah Prince, based at Greater Manchester Police's Football Intelligence Unit, said: "The vast majority of football fans go to matches to support their teams, enjoy the atmosphere and behave impeccably.

"It is only a very small minority of so-called fans who start trouble and go looking for violence. It is these fans who spoil it for everyone and no-one who attends a football match should have to put up with fearing for their safety.

"It is therefore imperative we find and punish those who engage in violent activity at this type of event.

"I would urge anyone who knows the men, or the men themselves, to please come forward."

* Anyone who recognises the men, or has any information about the incident, is asked to call the Football Intelligence Unit on 0161 856 6593 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.