Policing will be stepped up ahead of Gillingham’s crucial clash with Millwall on Saturday.

While the Gills are fighting to avoid relegation in League 1, Millwall are chasing a place in the play-offs.

The visitors have been given a ticket allocation of 2,395 for the game, in the Brian Moore Stand at Gillingham, but there could be others in home areas of the ground.

Officers will be on patrol inside Priestfield Stadium in a bid to avoid any problems.

Trouble flared when the two sides last met in the town, with eight fans arrested for a variety of offences, including one for assaulting a police officer.

Along with those arrested – three of which were inside the stadium – there were also a number of people ejected from the ground and several moved from the home section.

Ahead of this weekend’s game, a police spokeman said: “Residents and businesses in Medway may see an increased policing presence. This should not be any cause for concern.

“Any increase will be to facilitate all parties enjoying the day whilst seeking to minimise any disruption to the community that a large scale event can cause.

“The safety of spectators inside the stadium will be managed by stewards employed by Gillingham Football Club.

“There will also be a small police presence inside the stadium to assist with this role should it be necessary.”

Gills chairman Paul Scally admitted there could be Millwall fans who end up in home areas.

He said: “It is not possible to guarantee that some Millwall supporters will not be in areas generally occupied by GFC fans, especially given we have no control over whether our own supporters invite their Milwall friends to the game.

“It is always a good day [when hosting Millwall] and one to catch up with friends and neighbours, given many of our respective fans live in the Medway Towns and Kent.”