By Stefan Morkis

EXTRA POLICE will be deployed to prevent Old Firm fans clashing in Dundee after the deciding round of SPL league fixtures this week.

Both clubs go into Thursday’s games with a chance to win the title, and both will play their last matches on the east coast.

Dundee United host Celtic at Tannadice, while Rangers travel to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen.

Following last week’s clashes between Rangers fans and police in Manchester, the authorities are keen to prevent supporters clashing as they travel on the same bus and rail routes to the two cities.

If Celtic win the league at Tannadice, there is a chance Rangers fans may begin heading back to Glasgow from Aberdeen early—and encounter celebrating Celtic fans as they pass through Dundee.

A Tayside Police spokesman said last night, “Consideration will be given to the somewhat unusual circumstances of both clubs playing matches of such significance on the same evening.

“There will be additional police resources at both matches to ensure that order is maintained and, as usual, we would appeal to those attending to act in a sensible manner.

“Arrangements are being made for the game, and police are awake to potential flashpoints on the routes to and from the matches.

“We would appeal for anybody with information on potential disorder to contact Tayside Police on 0845 606 5705, or they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Last week’s events in Manchester have heightened security concerns, and both Celtic and Rangers will discuss arrangements with the police in Glasgow this morning.

Celtic security chief Ronnie Hawthorn said, “I am not aware of the trains being a particular concern, but how fans travel to games—especially where Rangers and Celtic play—is always part of our pre-match preparations.”

Although two sets of fans may be travelling by rail to the games, there will be no alcohol ban on the trains on Thursday night.

British Transport Police say this is normal for midweek games.