Football fans told to arrive early as city lit in blue

Landmarks in Coventry will be lit up in blue ahead of Coventry City's "huge" game against Sunderland, the city council has said.

Sky Blues fans attending the club's Championship play-off semi-final later have been urged to arrive early to the Coventry Building Society Arena.

Increased traffic is expected around the stadium due to the sold-out game and rush hour, Coventry City said.

The match kicks off at 20:00 BST and turnstiles open from 18:30.

A free shuttle bus to the arena will also be running from Coventry city centre.

The Sky Blues will take on the Black Cats at their home ground before playing a second leg on Tuesday at Sunderland's Stadium of Light, as both teams push for a chance to play in the Premier League.

Supporters have been reminded to stay off the football pitch during the game.

"Entering the pitch is a criminal offence and fans who do so under any circumstances face police action, as well as a ban from Coventry City matches," the club said.

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