Liverpool: Anfield dispersal order to ‘prevent disorder’

Image copyright Getty Images Image caption The order is to “prevent potential disorder”, say police

Police have issued a dispersal order to clear Liverpool fans from Anfield where the team has been presented with the Premier League trophy.

Thousands of supporters gathered in the streets, letting off flares and fireworks to celebrate the club’s first top-flight title in 30 years.

Reds legend Sir Kenny Dalglish presented the trophy in an empty stadium after the team beat Chelsea.

Merseyside Police said the 48-hour order is to prevent potential disorder.

Image copyright PA Media Image caption Fans let off smoke flares and fireworks Image copyright Getty Images Image caption Liverpool beat Chelsea 5-3 in their last home game of the season Image copyright PA Media Image caption Thousands of supporters gathered in the streets around Anfield Image copyright Getty Images Image caption Some fans wore masks Image copyright Getty Images Image caption A number of streets have been closed in the area around Anfield

The dispersal zone has been set up to stop a possible repeat of widespread gatherings last month when Liverpool clinched the championship.

Merseyside Police tweeted the dispersal zone was put in place from 21:30 BST “following increased numbers of people gathering near the ground”.

It gives police officers powers to direct people suspected of causing or likely to cause crime, nuisance or anti-social behaviour to leave an area for up to 48 hours.

The city council also tweeted a reminder to fans celebrating to “keep social distancing in mind and avoid crowds”.

Supporters waved flags outside the Kop while fireworks were set off around the ground.

Some wore face masks and some had brought children to enjoy the celebrations.

Hundreds of fans applauded the team’s arrival at Anfield despite pleas from the club and police to celebrate at home.

Kelly Foran, BBC North West Tonight

During the game the atmosphere outside the stadium was chilled, with families milling about.

Then at about 22:15 BST – out of nowhere – it all changed and there was a massive flurry of fans around the ground.

The air became filled with smoke from flares, fans were waving flags, cheering and singing, with some supporters climbing up the gates at the front of Anfield.

There was a heavy police presence but, despite a dispersal order being put in place, the crowds remained.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, captain Jordan Henderson and former player and manager Dalglish had called on fans to stay away because of the risk of spreading coronavirus.

“I know how difficult it must be as they’ve waited for so long for this club to win the league and it’s huge,” said Henderson.

Image copyright AFP/Getty Image caption Fans lined the streets and cheered the players as it made its way to the ground

Liverpool FC previously condemned the behaviour of some fans after the club secured the title last month.

Thirty-four people were injured – three seriously – as thousands of people congregated at the city’s waterfront despite coronavirus restrictions, while other celebrations were held outside Anfield and in the city centre.

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Media captionLiverpool captain Jordan Henderson speaks to BBC Breakfast before Premier League trophy presentation

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