Police charge 16 over Old Trafford clashes

Sixteen fans have been charged with various offences following the violent clashes which marred Manchester United's quarter-final against AS Roma.

Hundreds of supporters were caught up in ugly scenes outside Old Trafford before last night's Champions League game - which finished 7-1 to United as they progressed 8-3 on aggregate.

The first signs of trouble were allegedly triggered by a group of about 30 United fans who attempted to charge through the police segregation line.

Italian fans were bombarded with bottles and cans of beer as they were subjected to weapon searches at the away end turnstiles.

The main stand-off took place at the front entrance to the stadium on Sir Matt Busby Way as riot police and dog handlers separated rival fans.

Eyewitnesses said a firework was hurled by Italian fans at Manchester United supporters as bottles were then thrown between rival groups.

Greater Manchester Police said there were no reports of any injuries, but there were several walking wounded outside the stadium before the match.

Fourteen of those arrested were English and seven were Italian, police said.

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