Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has called on supporters to take notice of security advice when the team face Roma in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday in Italy.

Ferguson wants to avoid a repeat of the violent scenes that have marred recent matches between the clubs as his side prepares for the first-leg of their quarter-final.

Five United fans were stabbed in clashes with opposing supporters in December in the final group game.

Scenes of violence and disorder marred the two clubs’ Champions League games last season, although the October meeting at Old Trafford passed off peacefully.

Eighteen United fans needed hospital treatment last April after clashes on the terraces in Rome and outside the ground.

Italian police were accused by United club officials of handing out “indiscriminate beatings” and violence flared again a week later at the return leg when scuffles broke out outside the ground.

In his programme notes for the Aston Villa match, Ferguson said: “My main concern as we plan for Tuesday is the safety of our travelling fans.

“Last season the Italian police made a hash of security in the ground and a few of our people were hurt.

“That was put right when we went to Rome in December but there was still danger on the streets and a number of stabbings.

“I urge everyone who intends to go to Rome to heed the security advice so everything passes peacefully.

“Hopefully then we can concentrate on a testing but exciting match.”