Manchester City will use a different route when they travel to Anfield on Sunday following the violent scenes which greeted their team coach last season.

Merseyside Police have said they are determined to prevent a repeat of the trouble that occurred before the Champions League match between the two sides on April 4.

At least one window was smashed on the journey through streets that were filled with thousands of fans, a number throwing flares and smoke bombs, and a replacement vehicle had to be found for the trip home.

Press Association Sport understands City will approach Liverpool’s ground from a different direction on Sunday in order to avoid passing the Arkles pub, a popular pre-match meeting point for Liverpool fans.

City have held talks with Merseyside Police about the measures which will be in place this weekend.

The 4.30pm kick-off is eagerly anticipated with City top of the Premier League and Liverpool second, with both teams unbeaten.

Extra police will be on duty at the match, it was announced on Wednesday.

Superintendent Dave Charnock said: “As with any match, we have prepared a comprehensive and appropriate policing operation ahead of Sunday’s game and have liaised with both clubs and their supporter groups.

“This will ensure this game can be enjoyed safely by all as well as minimising any disruption to local residents and the roads, and everyone involved is working hard to ensure there is no repeat of the events that occurred
outside Anfield before the Champions League fixture between the clubs in April.

“There will be additional officers on duty at the ground, both uniformed and plain clothed, and we will have a city centre policing plan in place throughout the day.”

The match coincides with the fourth and final day of the city’s Liverpool’s Dream event, which involves a parade of giant puppets, and the centre of Liverpool is expected to be busier than usual.

Superintendent Charnock added: “We have worked with the Giants event organisers and are deploying extra resources to ensure both match-goers and visitors to the city are kept safe and to smoothly facilitate the movements of
those travelling to and from the game, as well as visitors attending the Giants event.”