Police are looking for 19 people after a football riot in Glasgow

Police have released images of 19 people they want to speak to about a major disturbance ahead of the Scottish League Cup final in Glasgow.

Violence and disorder broke out in the city center ahead of the game between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park on Saturday 15 December.

Footage on social media showed several groups of fans, some wearing Santa hats and face coverings, charging down Argyle Street and lighting flares before kick-off.

The force is appealing for anyone to identify those pictured contact them.

People who witnessed the chaos in the town center are also being asked to get in touch.

The video taken that day shows large groups of fans walking through the city center from around 13:00, escorted by the police.

However, violence soon erupted, with a group riding down Argyle Street towards Trongate.

Shoppers could be seen screaming and running back home to avoid the rush.

Online footage shows a football fan falling to the ground as others run around him. Soon a flare went off near the door of the shop.

An officer was then seen using his baton on several fans passing by.

One shopper told BBC News they were forced to flee to a nearby store “for their own safety”.

CCTV footage from Gallagher’s Bar in Howard Street shows a masked man punched in the face as he tries to enter the pub by Celtic supporters.

Moments later a flare was thrown through the door as fans streamed into the street outside.

During the chaos, a Police Scotland officer was injured after missiles were thrown and a 26-year-old man was also taken to hospital after being severely assaulted.

Officers are authorized to use stop and search powers, including removing items used to conceal identity.

The flares were later extinguished during the match itself.

Celtic took home the trophy after winning 5-4 on penalties in a 3-3 draw against Rangers.

First Minister John Swinney condemned the behavior of a “minority of fans” as “absolutely unacceptable”.

He added: “This has caused fear and distress and alarm for people who were enjoying their Christmas shopping before the football game.

“Clubs have a responsibility to ensure their fans behave properly.”