FOOTBALL fans celebrating goals are as likely to suffer injuries as the players themselves, new research reveals today.

At least one fan is treated every other game for injuries including neck strain, spinal irritation, acute lumbago and muscle tears.

Most injuries are caused by excessive goal celebrations, although with just 23 scored at the Reebok this season, Wanderers fans appear less likely to be at risk than their Manchester rivals.

To combat the growing problem, physiotherapists have produced a series of warm-up exercises for fans -- just in time for today's derby clash with neighbours Blackburn Rovers.

Alison Fox, of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists, said: "Most spectator injuries are soft tissue injuries affecting muscles, tendons or ligaments. The vast majority are preventable.

"Even TV viewers should follow these exercises every hour or so to increase circulation and reduce physical stresses. Injuries can be picked up just as easily watching the game at home as from the stand."

The study by energy giants npower says fans should wrap up warm to aid cold muscles, avoid static postures when sitting to boost circulation, and stretch regularly. Trapezuis strains, or "ricked necks", are common. Fans should practise neck rotations, chin tucks and shoulder shrugs. Nail-biting games (muscle strains) are equally as dangerous to your health as boring nil-nil draws (backache).

Assistant Reebok physio Andy Barr said: "It is a great idea because fans are not prepared for the stress on their muscles a spontaneous goal celebration can cause. It's fun but serious."

FANS' warm-up exercises include:

Elbow fare -- clasp hands behind head and hold for five seconds.

Forward stretch -- interlock fingers and twist palms as you stretch.

Neck rotations -- focus ahead, turning your chin to the left and right.

Chin tucks -- move head backwards with chin tucked in.

Shoulder shrug -- lift shoulders towards ears and breathe slowly.

Arm reaches -- interlock fingers, turn palms upwards and stretch up.

Lumbar stretches -- arch spine with hands on small of the back.