TRAVELLING football fans have sparked a security alert after snapping up tickets for the wrong end of the ground.

A massive security operation will swings into action as Scotland take on Poland in the Euro 2016 crunch match on Thursday in Glasgow.

Insiders fear Scotland-based Poles may have sold their seats to travelling supporters desperate to watch their team take on Scotland in the European qualifiers.

Polish-speaking Police Scotland officers will be deployed on the ground to engage with supporters and prevent disorder, the Evening Times can reveal.

Around 3000 travelling fans - who have legitimate tickets - are expected to arrive in Glasgow during the coming days.

However, Chief Superintendent Andy Bates confirmed Polish fans have obtained tickets for sections of Hampden stadium intended for Scotland supporters.

He told the Evening Times: "Three thousand tickets have been allocated to Poland fans.

"But we are aware a number of Poland fans have bought tickets for the home end.

"Police officers will be working at the match and we have a tried and tested plan, which will deal with any issues that may arise.

"We want to ensure that all fans enjoy a safe and secure event."

An army of police officers and stewards will be on patrol in and around Hampden Stadium, aiming to prevent potential disorder.

There are also concerns about pyrotechnics being brought to the match.

However, one police source said "segregation will be more difficult to manage" at the match.

They said: "We have a huge Polish community in Scotland, so segregation between both sides will be more difficult to manage than at other matches.

"But the usual rules will apply and there are plans in place to deal with any public drinking and disorder.

"We're hopeful it will be a good game, with a good atmosphere."

The Evening Times understands if any briefs for the home section end up with visiting supporters, action will be taken and away fans may be ejected from the ground.

Mr Bates, divisional commander for Greater Glasgow, said: "The Events Intelligence Model will be applied for Scotland v Poland match.

"Previously, the model has improved public safety, increased public reassurance levels, reduced the cost of policing events and reduced the risk to the public.

"It is an intelligence-led approach which will see officers identify 'risk supporters'.

"On the day of the match, we will engage with them and if they do slip up, we'll be there to take action.

"Officers will be deployed to specific locations to identify those individuals and disrupt their activity."