Liverpool co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have been urged to stay away from Anfield tonight by Merseyside police.

The Liverpool Echo says both men were urged by Merseyside police not to attend the match.

Due to the ill-feeling against them among Reds fans, fears were expressed about their safety if they arrived at the stadium.

Hicks was understood to be very keen on coming to Anfield and was expected to take his seat on the front row of the director's box.

The advice was also given to George Gillett, but he is unable to come to Anfield because of other commitments.

A source close to Tom Hicks said: "There was a discussion that was relevant to both Tom and George about the difficulties about them attending.

"But Mr Hicks decided he wanted to be at Anfield and is looking forward to the game."