AN East Lancashire landlord whose pub was trashed by football hooligans less than six months ago today announced he was closing for Sunday's crunch tie between Blackburn and Manchester City and said: "God help us if City lose."

Trevor Hannon, of Blackburn's Adelphi, issued the warning as police stepped up their preparations for the match. More than 8,000 City fans are expected to travel to Blackburn to see their team battle for automatic promotion to the premier league. The club only need one point.

Police have warned fans not to travel unless they have a match ticket as none will be on sale at Ewood Park on the day. Football planning co-ordinator Inspector Stuart Caley said Manchester City fans had been allocated all the Darwen End and though police had been working closely with the club to keep away supporters out of home sections, some would inevitably slip through the net.

Mr Hannon, whose pub is close to the railway station, in The Boulevard, said: "I don't think I'll open all day. I've already had some trouble with football fans and I'm not taking the same chance again. We are expecting lots of Manchester City fans as this is a big game for them."

Insp Caley said: "We have been saddened to hear some season ticket supporters have been selling their seats for the day." No early extensions would be granted for licensed premises so no pubs would be open before noon. He said: "We are trying to avoid people thinking that the pubs will be open early because on previous occasions they have." He would not reveal whether extra officers had been drafted in to cover the game or how many officers would be on duty on the day.

Other town centre pubs planning to close for the match include the Postal Order, Yates's Blob Shop and Pitchers.

Kick off is at 1.30pm.