Police are urging north-east football fans travelling to Spain to watch Aberdeen take on Real Sociedad to enjoy themselves, but behave.
Ahead of the UEFA Europa League third round qualifier tomorrow night at San Sebastián, Superintendent Innes Walker – who has been liaising with police in Spain – said it was important to be “safe and responsible”.
He warned supporters attending the match to be careful if drinking and “know their limits” if they want to maintain their “excellent reputation” abroad.
The force praised Dons fans earlier this week, saying they behaved in an “exemplary fashion” when they were targeted by FC Groningen supporters in Holland.
Thousands of fans made the journey from Scotland to the Dutch city for the Europa League clash last Thursday – a match the Dons won 2-1.
But Aberdeen fans were targeted on a Groningen street as their procession – led by a pipe band – made their way to the Euroborg stadium.
Dutch police officers had to resolve the situation, said to have involved around 200 FC Groningen fans.
Supt Walker said: “Police Scotland, as in previous rounds, will be working with Aberdeen Football Club with the aim of ensuring that fixtures are safe and enjoyable for home and travelling fans.
“Officers will be in attendance to support the Spanish police on Thursday and assist them in policing the fixture.
“Aberdeen fans have an excellent reputation in Europe, but it is incumbent upon me to remind anyone who may become involved in disorder that it is likely that this will be dealt with robustly by the local law enforcement agency.
“The last fixtures both home and away have overall been very successful and enjoyable events for all involved and we want that to continue.
“We do anticipate that inappropriate behaviour will be kept to a minimum and hope that it will be a good experience for all involved.”