14/05/2008 02:37:00
The Uefa Cup Final against Zenit St Petersburg has drawn thousands of Rangers fans to Manchester.
By tonight's kick off at the City of Manchester Stadium, up to 100,000 fans from both sides will grace the city. It's the Scottish club's first European final in 36 years and, according to the Telegraph, a record number of travelling supporters are expected.
The Rangers squad and management flew from Glasgow Airport and arrived in the city on Monday, while overseas fans have been arriving at Manchester Airport from all around the world in the last few days.
On Tuesday, a number of fans departed from Ibrox, Rangers' home stadium, in decorated cars - but the largest movement of fans is anticipated to occur closer to kick-off. To alleviate road congestion, Strathclyde Police have asked those travelling by coach or car to avoid forming a convoy.
Additionally, fans planning to travel by rail from Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverly have been urged by Network Rail to stay away from the stations unless they have booked seats already.
Manchester's hotels are reaping the benefits of the onslaught - with no available rooms in the city or for up to 20 miles beyond. It's expected that supporters unable to get a room will camp, spend the night in their cars or even sleep rough. Pub owners in Manchester and nearby Blackpool are also anticipating record takings over the period.
Three fan zones have been set up in the city - in Albert Square, Piccadilly gardens and Cathedral Gardens - where supporters can watch the game on big screens and enjoy pre-match entertainment. Fans that choose not to travel to Manchester will be able to enjoy the match via large screens at the Ibrox Stadium.