It comes after ugly scenes overshadowed the rivals' most recent meeting

West Midlands Police has promised a "visible presence" at Molineux for this month's eagerly-awaited Black Country derby – after the last meeting between Wolves and West Bromwich Albion was marred by major crowd disorder.

The force said it is already working with partners on plans for the clash on Sunday, September 20, which will be the first league Black Country derby played in front of supporters since the 2011/12 Premier League season.

It comes after ugly scenes overshadowed the rivals' most recent meeting, an FA Cup tie at The Hawthorns in January 2024.

Stewards and police officers attempt to stop a pitch invasion during the FA Cup fourth round match between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers at The Hawthorns. Photo: Jack Thomas - WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images

placeholder image — Stewards and police officers attempt to stop a pitch invasion during the FA Cup fourth round match between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers at The Hawthorns. Photo: Jack Thomas - WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images

The match was suspended for more than 30 minutes following serious disorder in the stands, with players temporarily leaving the pitch as police and stewards dealt with the disturbance.

There will consequently be significant attention on security arrangements when the rivals meet again, this time at the Wolves ground.

There was crowd trouble the last time West Brom and Wolves met. Photo: Getty Images

Superintendent Tim Robinson, who will oversee the policing operation, said: "This will be the first Black Country derby which fans have been able to attend at Molineux for many years and we know how much supporters will be looking forward to the fixture.

"We are already working with our partners in preparing our plans for the day with the focus of ensuring everyone can safely enjoy the occasion.

"We are experienced in policing derby matches in this region and we'll make sure we have sufficient resources in place on the day to provide a visible presence and respond to any issues."

Demand for tickets has underlined the anticipation surrounding the fixture, with Albion's entire allocation of 2,550 seats in the lower tier of the Steve Bull Stand already sold out.

Supporters rushed to secure tickets after they initially went on sale to away members, followed by staggered availability for loyalty points holders.

Albion confirmed the sell-out on Friday morning, quipping: "Can't say we're surprised."

There had also been rumours the fixture could be designated a 'bubble' match, which would potentially involve additional restrictions and guidance for travelling supporters.

However, no such arrangements were outlined by Albion when tickets went on sale.

The September clash will mark the first time supporters have been able to watch a Black Country derby at Molineux for many years and the first league meeting between the clubs with fans present for almost 15 years; the clubs were both in the Premier League in the 2020-21 season albeit during the Covid pandemic.

The return fixture at The Hawthorns is scheduled for the weekend of February 20.