TWO hundred Liverpool supporters were today arriving in Turkey amid tight security for the club's vital Champions League clash with Galatasaray.

Police in Istanbul have launched one of their biggest security operations ever for a football match to ensure Tuesday's game passes peacefully.

Istanbul has been a flashpoint in recent years for trouble between Turkish fans and English supporters.

Two Leeds United supporters were murdered in the city in April, 2000, during clashes between rival fans.

The Liverpool supporters arriving today at Istanbul's airport were all members of the club's official travel club and were being bussed immediately to their hotel.

They were being issued with a list of "dos and don'ts" in the hope that tonight will pass without incident.

A further 180 Liverpool supporters will arrive tomorrow afternoon.

Galatasaray play at one of the most notorious stadiums in Europe. The infamous Ali Sami Yen ground has an intimidating atmosphere and will be packed full of fanatical Galatasaray supporters.

Hundreds of armed Turkish officers will police the game, which will provide the Football Association with an indication of the steps needed to be taken for England's match with Turkey during the Euro 2004 qualifying group which will take place after the World Cup.

Four police officers from Merseyside arrived yesterday to liaise with the Turkish authorities regarding Tuesday's match.

Chief superintendent Ted Greenwell said: "We are working closely with the Turkish authorities, the British consulate and staff from Liverpool FC.

"We hope all our fans will maintain the high standards that they set around Europe.

"The co-operation we have had so far is very promising and points towards a successful evening."

Liverpool currently lie bottom of their group and tomorrow's match is a must-win game if they hope to qualify for the next round of the Champions League.

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