FANS WARNED: INSULTING PUTIN MAY SPARK FIGHTS

police officers to deploy’ and that he expected supporters to be contained in those designated areas. Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts, head of the Football Policing Unit, told Sportsmail last night: ‘We expect English fans to go to fan zones and make sure they do not behave in any way that might make them a target. We are aware of the possible penalties now. We are urging fans to think about the consequences of their actions. ‘Any singing indicative of an imperialistic mind-set can provoke a hostile reaction. Visiting fans need to put themselves in Russian shoes and consider how they would feel. We urge fans to learn from some of the experiences they have had in France last summer. The French found some of the chants very offensive.’ Russian gang members have told Sportsmail that the singing of unflattering songs about Russian president Vladimir Putin by England fans in Marseilles was highly provocative. There seems little doubt that a repeat of such insults could be even more inflammatory in Russia. Putin has nurtured a strong nationalistic sentiment in the country and ridiculing him in any way risks a backlash. Putin, who wants to put on a positive show to the world, has also instructed authorities to crack down on any Russian hooliganism. British police, who expect between 10,000 and 20,000 English fans to travel, will host World Cup talks with their Russian counterparts next week when Liverpool and Manchester

United play Spartak Moscow and CSKA Moscow respectively. Meanwhile, Gareth Southgate believes Harry Kane will come to Russia next summer looking to prove he’s the best striker in world football. The England manager, who is in Moscow for today’s World Cup draw, said: ‘I’m certain that is Harry’s ambition, and there’s no question if that is his ambition, then this is the stage to go and show it. ‘As a player you are judged a lot by what happens with your club, but in the end the world stars are ultimately judged by what they do with their country and in major tournaments.’ Southgate also defended his medical staff after Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho claimed Phil Jones was given six injections in an injured calf while with England earlier this month. ‘Manchester United are incredibly supportive of everything we do,’ said Southgate. ‘We have got ongoing dialogue over this situation. It’s a complex one and we want to make sure we get these things right.’