A 22-YEAR-OLD man from Northallerton has been arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill fans at tonight's Portsmouth v Sunderland match at Fratton Park.

Portsmouth Football Club have stepped up security following the threat to "kill fans" was made on social media.

The threat referenced the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.

According to reports, the post read: "I wonder how many Portsmouth fans I can shoot everyone remember the Manchester arena bombing just imagine Fratton Park going bang well let’s find out tomorrow." 

A second post said: "Bomb bomb fratton park went bang the Portsmouth fans all died. Haha going to be fun tomorrow headline news."

The account has now been suspended.

North Yorkshire Police confirmed that a man has been arrested.

A spokesman said: "A 22-year-old man from Northallerton was arrested in the early hours of this morning on suspicion of making threats to kill ahead of tonight’s Portsmouth v Sunderland game at Fratton Park.

"He currently remains in custody while enquiries continue."

Portsmouth FC put out a statement on their website to reassure fans: "Portsmouth Football Club are aware of a message that has been posted on social media and are working with police on this matter.

"The club would like to reassure fans that there will be enhanced security checks in place for Thursday’s play-off match against Sunderland at Fratton Park (7.45pm kick-off).

"Due to these checks, all supporters with tickets are advised to arrive in plenty of time to make sure they are inside the stadium for the start of the game.

"Tickets for the match – which is being televised live on Sky Sports – have sold out."

Hampshire Police issued the following statement: "We are aware of threats made on social media regarding the football match between Sunderland and Portsmouth taking place in Portsmouth.

"We continue to work with Portsmouth FC and can assure the public that a sufficient policing response will be in place for tonight’s match."