FOOTBALL CASUALS are being warned to stay away from two matches involving teams from Tayside today.

Police have stated they will be closely monitoring both the Gretna v Dundee United and Arbroath v Aberdeen Scottish Cup ties because of potential disturbances.

Troublemakers from Dundee are understood to be heading for both venues and the risk of public disorder and violence is thought to be high.

Gayfield match commander Superintendent Angela Wilson said there would be a “significant police presence” to deal with any troublemakers who congregate in Arbroath today.

Yesterday the police also issued a warning to casuals intending to travel from Dundee to the United match at Gretna.

The spokeswoman said, “As a result of our continued intelligence gathering operation and our liaison with Dumfries and Galloway Police, we have issued a firm warning to individuals who are planning to engage in public disorder in the Gretna area.

“Our intelligence is such that we have knowledge of the plans for Dundee affiliated casuals to travel to the Dumfries and Galloway area.

“We are now taking the opportunity to warn those involved that conspiracy is in itself a criminal act.

“Those individuals identified can be detained and details of known troublemakers, including their photographs, have already been forwarded by Tayside Police to our counterparts in Dumfries.

“Intelligence has been passed to the British Transport Police and we will patrol the road networks to disrupt the travel plans of those we know are involved.

“We hope supporters who are intent on enjoying the fixture itself can do so in the knowledge that every effort is being made by the police to ensure their safety.”