The Champions League, League One and League Two are all coming to the West Midlands today, causing public transport providers to issue a warning to commuters to “check before they travel” amidst fears of congestion.

Bologna vs Aston Villa, Bolton Wanders vs Birmingham City and Carlisle United vs Walsall FC will all kick off within 15 minutes of each other later this evening on October 22.

Network Rail has urged people who are planning to catch trains from Birmingham New Street Station, Aston Station and Witton Station to “plan ahead” as thousands of fans will be making their way to and from Villa Park, St Andrew’s and the Bescot Stadium.

Services running between these stations are expected to be extremely busy, with West Midlands Railway taking to social media to advise passengers to avoid travelling at peak match times if they can.

Steven Ireland, head of stations, security and customer relationship management for Network Rail’s central route, said “Our station team at Birmingham New Street is ready to help football fans get to and from their matches smoothly.

“With three local fixtures all landing on the same evening, it’s important that passengers plan ahead, allow themselves extra time to get to their destination and know the time of their train home.

“Check before you travel at nationalrail.co.uk or with your train operator so you have the latest travel information.” 

Lucy Wootton, head of Grand Railway Collaboration, added: “We’re expecting the rail network to be busier than normal from early this evening with football fans and commuters heading in and out of the city.

“Make sure you plan ahead, allow plenty of time for your journey and please be patient and kind to your fellow passengers and train crew.”

League One side Birmingham City will face Bolton Wanders at 19.45pm, the same time as Walsall FC kick-off against Carlisle United in League Two.

The Champions League clash between Aston Villa and Italian side, Bologna will kick off shortly after, at 8pm.

Chief Inspector Christopher Hodgkiss said: “We’re expecting Birmingham to be busy, so our officers will be on hand and on patrol throughout the day to deter anti-social behaviour and ensure everyone can travel safely to and from the games.

“If you have any concerns or see something that doesn’t look right, speak to an officer or text British Transport Police on 61016.”