EXTRA measures are being taken to ensure Burnley’s first Premier League fixture at Turf Moor is a “sensat-ional, but safe” affair.

Police acknowledged that the match against Manchester United on the evening of Wednesday August 19 is one of the biggest of the season.

Chief Inspector Jeff Brown, match commander on the night, said the size of the policing operation will reflect the magnitude of the challenge against the current Premier League title holders, while the club also pledged to put additional stewards in place.

And officers confirmed that known troublemakers will be contacted ahead of the sell-out match and warned to stay away.

Mr Brown said swift action will be taken against anyone who caus-es trouble and match bans could be secured, meaning they miss an entire season.

He said thousands of fans were expected to descend on the town to support both teams.

He said: “The primary aim of our operation will be to ensure public safety.

"The vast majority of people who go to watch the football are law-abiding citizens and we just want them to get to the ground and back safely.

“However, clearly we are also mindful of public disorder and, although there is no evidence to suggest there will be any problems at this match, we will of course have the capacity to deal with anyone who is caught behaving in an anti-social or disorderly manner swiftly.”

Mr Brown urged fans to help police and club safety officials by arriving at Turf Moor early, using suitable car parks and keeping any valuables hidden from view.

Burnley FC ground safety advi-ser Alex Wood said: “The eyes of the whole country will be on Burnley this season and this fixture, in particular, is a fantastic opportunity to show how Burnley fans respond to, and appreciate, good football.”