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Gerrard pleads for peace at Anfield

Comment: 0 January 27th, 2012

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard asked their faithful to enjoy their FA Cup tie against Manchester United instead of creating mayhem.

The England midfielder pleaded for calm as United visit Anfield on Saturday, for an intense meeting that follows the racism row between the Reds’ Luis Suarez and United’s Patrice Evra.

Reports said that around 6,000 Red Devil fans are set to visit the Merseyside club, making the potential for drama on the bleachers very real.

Gerrard reminded Liverpool supporters that they wanted the news following their match to be about a great battle and not violence that occurred during their tie.

“We do all have a responsibility – we all have a responsibility to ensure that this game is remembered for the football,” he explained.

“Liverpool and Man United is a massive rivalry and, of course, there is going to be stuff in the papers and banter between fans. But it would be fantastic if, after the weekend, it is remembered for being a top game – and obviously, from our point of view, a Liverpool win.”

“We don’t want any front page stories from this game, or any stories besides a football match between two top sides and may the best team win.”

Different measures have been taken in anticipation of the meeting. Merseyside police have said that they will be “firm but fair” in treating both Liverpool and United fans. Authorities plan to enact a zero-tolerance policy to avoid uncalled-for incidents.

They added that a security cordon will be positioned around the pitch to ensure the safety of the players, especially Evra.  Also, fans suspected of any abuse will be immediately arrested.

Team managers Kenny Dalglish and Sir Alex Ferguson have also released statements of similar nature, following an FA request for a peaceful encounter between the two outfits.

The FA Cup battle will kick off at 12:45 pm (UTC) on 28 January with the winner advancing to the next round.

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