It is widely expected over 100,000 fans will travel to the city in an unprecedented level of support – even though the club have only been 'officially' allocated 18,000 tickets.

Quadruple

The Scottish club – with a strong Ulster tradition and support base – are aiming to lift the European trophy as part of a historic 'quadruple'. Rangers will face Zenit St Petersburg of Russia at the City of Manchester Stadium.

Local supporters are expected to use all avenues at their disposal in order to be in the city to soak up the atmosphere. Flights offered by budget airlines are said to be fully booked and the ferry companies are expecting a busy period as fans improvise in order to reach their destination.

Tickets are reportedly selling on the Internet for over £1,000 each, such is the demand. Sandy Row supporters' club received an anonymous phone call with a gentleman offering £700 for a ticket.

Scarce tickets

While many are travelling without tickets, one lucky supporter from the Shankill Rangers supporters' club told the News Letter that he would be watching the game inside the stadium.

"I have been promised a ticket from a mate in Scotland," he said.

"Luckily, I will be charged at face value for mine. I know there are spare tickets going around but they are far too expensive.

"The fans are going to enjoy themselves and make the most of the opportunity, regardless as to whether they have a ticket, as this might not happen again."

Home draw

Secretary of the Sandy Row supporters' club, Tommy Lisk, expects a lot of local fans to make the short journey over the Irish Sea.

"Our club, unfortunately, is deemed as low category when it comes to receiving tickets," he said.

"I know the club is opening up Ibrox with a big screen for the game but there will not be many there as everyone will be going to Manchester.

"This is technically a home draw for us," he added.

Travel plans

A spokesperson for George Best Belfast City Airport said they are expecting huge numbers of supporters through the doors as the match draws closer.

He said: "We expect it to be a very busy period on Wednesday. Most flights to Manchester are operating to full capacity."

Ferry operator Stena Line is operating a special package for Northern Ireland fans, which includes an overnight stay in Blackpool. The Dublin-Holyhead route is another option expected to be used by those travelling by sea.

Due to the expected massive influx of supporters, Manchester City Council have set up three fanzones for those not so fortunate to get a match ticket.

The zones – which can cater for a total of 23,000 and include giant screens – will be located at Albert Square, Cathedral Gardens and Piccadilly Gardens.