Liverpool, Manchester United Issue Joint Statement on Fans Before EPL Match

Liverpool and Manchester United have issued a joint statement ahead of Monday evening's Premier League clash at Anfield, urging their fans to refrain from "offensive and discriminatory behaviour."

Supporters of both clubs were warned that they risk removal from the stadium, arrest and prosecution should they fail to meet the request.

Per Liverpool's website, the statement asked "all supporters to be respectful and help eradicate all forms of offensive and discriminatory behaviour from the game."

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As highlighted by ESPN FC's Glenn Price, both United and Liverpool were fined back in May following "illicit chanting" and bad behaviour during the clubs' two-legged UEFA Europa League clash.

Given the history between the two clubs, clashes between United and Liverpool are invariably feisty affairs.

In the run-up to their first meeting of the 2016-17 season, there has already been some controversy over the choice of referee, per PaddyPower:

After seven matches of the new Premier League campaign, Liverpool sit fourth in the table and United three points behind in sixth.

There is little question that the atmosphere in Anfield on Monday will be raucous, but both clubs have sensibly moved to avoid the confrontation getting out of hand. 

Given the European clashes earlier this year, it is no surprise that United and Liverpool have joined in an attempt to prevent a repeat. 

Per Price, a spokesperson for anti-discrimination group Kick it Out hailed the move, saying both clubs "should be commended for this proactive approach ahead of this important fixture."

Due to the international break, Premier League football has been on hiatus since early October.

The Anfield clash is unquestionably the highlight fixture for the return of club football in England, and it is a match that will hopefully be remarkable for footballing reasons rather than fan trouble.