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Police deploy 700 officers, drones, dogs and horses - and make stadium a no-fly zone - in huge operation to stop unrest at Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv after Israeli fans were BANNED

Related Topics: WMP

More than 700 police officers will be on duty for Aston Villa's high-profile Europa League clash with Maccabi Tel Aviv as part of a huge operation.

West Midlands Police will also deploy drones, dogs, horses and 'protest liaison officers' at a match at which away fans are banned. A no-fly zone will also be placed around Villa Park.

The scale of the operation for Thursday night's fixture is unprecedented based upon the fact that there will – officially – be no supporters of the visiting side present.

However, the force is on alert for the likelihood of fans of the Israeli club securing tickets and the potential for protest in and around Villa Park and Birmingham.