We have spoken to five Newcastle fans who were there during the height of the football violence of the 1970's and 1980's and asked them how the game has changed in this country ... and what the Italians can learn from it.
These lads were involved in Newcastle's most notorious terrace fights, but explain why "firms" have buried their differences and why Italy must get back to reality and encourage families to return to the sport ... just like in England.
This is a five-part article, on this website for the next five days. The names of the contributors have been changed for obvious reasons, but we feel we can learn from their experiences. And don't think they are dole-wallers with no life, because two are bank managers and solicitors! First up is "CHARLIE" from Sacriston, Co Durham.
The question: What methods used by the police and authorities stop football violence?
"You look at how the police in Italy and other places like Spain deal with the fans. They haven't got a clue! We were at Barcelona, Roma, Milan, Palermo. They wade in with battons and sticks, and provoke trouble. In the Nou Camp there were only 16,000 in a ground that holds 100,000 and it was almost a ghost-town. The Toon fans were high up in a section with about 20 seats for every fan, we moved to the front for a better view. The police hit us with sticks - no provocation - just out to knock seven bells out of the Toon fans.
"Italy is the same. They cannot wait to have a go! So when the kids fight back, you have a riot.
"Newcastle police travel away with the fans. They know the troublemakers. Keep their distance, but they KNOW the score. And it works. I was in Wycombe when I worked down there and went to the match when Millwall played there. The Met Police were on the ball, knew what to expect, and handled it very well. And this is Millwall we are talking about, the biggest nutters in the country. But the cops are in their back pockets wherever they travel.
"We met some of the boys at Sunderland a couple of seasons back. Met in a pub on the outskirts, and when we came out it was as though we were Posh and Becks - video cameras everywhere! The police knew the score, had it sussed, and what can you do in a situation like that? You don't see rucks with coppers anymore.
"The cops at Birmingham used to be notorious for CAUSING the trouble. I can tell you loads of incidents where they provoked Newcastle fans into fighting. The Scousers take care of their own. If Liverpool fans are in a ruck, it's the away fans to blame. Mind you, I've seen the Geordie cops do the same at St James' Park in the past. But it's all civilised these days, and so it should be.
"If the cops over in Italy don't know the ring leaders, then you should ask the question ... WHY? They knicked 50 or so at the weekend in Italy, and all you have to do is make an example of them, lock them up then make sure they don't return to football again."
* More on Wednesday.