There is to be a full council inquiry into the failing of a 'big screen' TV set up in Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester for last night's big match - which then led to violence on the streets and the arrest of 42 people - including those who were held after a Russian fan was stabbed.

Rangers supporters from across the British Isles flooded into Manchester hoping to see their team beat Zenit St Petersburg in the Uefa Cup final match - but when the big public screen failed - it proved too much for many, especially among those who had drunk local off licences and some pubs dry earlier in the day.

However, Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said "the finger of blame" pointed at fans, rather than with one of the big screens breaking down.

"I think a small number of Rangers fans have let themselves down and they've let their city down," he said.

Having been defeated for the Uefa Cup - beaten 2-0 - hundreds then clashed with riot police after the big screen broke down.

Police charged supporters after they lobbed bottles and cans at the officers, marring the good-natured atmosphere that had characterised the build-up.

Damage was caused to a bank, bus stops and a sports car which was bounced across a road.

A number of fans and at least 15 police officers - and a police dog - were hurt in the clashes.

Police injuries include a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and cracked ribs. The dog suffered a serious cut to his paw. Fans suffered cuts and at least one was bitten.

Assistant Chief Constable Justine Curran said the day had been "largely peaceful" with more than 100,000 fans behaving well in an atmosphere of "carnival and celebration".

"But I'm really disappointed that has been spoiled by pockets of disorder that have broken out in the city centre.

"A minority of thugs have overshadowed what should have been a great occasion.

"I've watched them commit damage, assault my officers and I'm really sickened and disappointed."

Manchester City Council had set up three special fan zones with big screens for ticketless fans to watch the match.

While screens in Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens did show the game, the one in Piccadilly Gardens failed about 15 minutes before kick-off.

In a separate incident a Russian fan was stabbed in the back inside the City of Manchester stadium, though his injuries were not life threatening according to Greater Manchester police.

Six people were later arrested in connection with the attack.

On the pitch, Zenit St Petersburg 'struck a blow' for the new era of Russian football, lifting the trophy, thanks to goals by Igor Denisov and Konstantin Zyrianov in a match illuminated by the skills of Andrei Arshavin.

(BMcC)