Cumbria Police want help to trace a gang who they say is responsible for attacking fans and other matchday related disorder.

The force has sparked debate on social media after @CumPolCUFC account stated on Twitter: "The group of 20ish Carlisle idiots running around back lanes after the game assaulting away fans then running off causing ASB are the reason you see the officer numbers @ previous games If any1 would like to step 4ward & identify them plse contact us @officialcufc"

The online debate was also used to remind fans that the club foots the bill for police at matches and that officer numbers are agreed following consideration of intelligence about upcoming clashes and reviews of previous games.

On Twitter, @CumPolCUFC said: "Its incidents this & others where a few fools who attach themselves to the club cause issues which dictates policing numbers That money could well be spent in the Jan transfer window but instead it pays for a policing operation Its not rocket science but a few pints & off they go"

The police have also said that Carlisle United will investigate claims that Crewe fans were throwing missiles at home supporters.

Cumbria Police can be contacted on 101 or via email at 101@cumbria.police.uk.