Police have revealed the number of arrests made during the Manchester United v Rangers match.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said officers were working through Thursday evening to 'keep people safe' across Manchester as over 70,000 footy fans flocked to Old Trafford to watch the Europa League clash.

The force revealed more than 450 cops were deployed through the night with 39 arrests being made in total - with the vast majority being before the game.

26 arrests were made in the Ancoats area of the city after disorder allegedly broke out just after 6pm on Thursday, January 23.

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Meanwhile, further arrests were made on suspicion of alleged drug offences, drunk and disorderly behaviour, tragedy chanting, and assault of a steward.

Before the match, GMP worked with both clubs and their respective supporters' groups to ensure the game passed safely with as 'little disruption to the wider public as possible'.

There were no further arrests made after the clash.

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes, match commander for the game, said: “These high-profile fixtures are always exciting occasions, but they also naturally present challenges to ensure that the thousands of spectators can enjoy the game safely and to minimise disruption for the wider public.

“Last night, we did see some incidents before the game which required a prompt response from our officers to prevent any further disorder and harm. Arrests were made and further disorder was prevented.

“An operation like this takes weeks, if not months, of planning with both clubs and all our local partners.

"Generally, the crowds have been really well-behaved and the vast majority have had a safe and enjoyable time watching the game in Manchester.”