Manchester United’s security experts apparently searched the team hotel for bugging devices ahead of the Liverpool clash.

In these images, officials seem to be scanning the rooms at the plush Lowry Hotel in efforts to stop Louis van Gaal’s tactical briefings from being eavesdropped.

Burly men in white shirts and ties were seen holding devices near the windows in a suite at the five-star hotel shortly before the Reds’ boss and players ran through their plans ahead of the derby.

(Image: Eamonn Clarke)

And it looks like the tactics were kept a tight secret, with United going on to beat their bitter Merseyside rivals 3-1.

It is understood that Old Trafford officials have been checking for listening devices around United’s hotels for more than a year, since a bug was found stashed in a team meeting during the 2013/14 season.

(Image: Eamonn Clarke)

After the room was swept at the Lowry on Saturday, van Gaal and several players were seen sitting around a table with food and drinks.

It isn't the first time there has been fears expressed over hidden listening devices.

In 2005, bosses at Old Trafford launched an investigation after a bug was found in their dressing room during a vital clash with Chelsea.

Two recordings - one featuring former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson giving his men a pep talk ahead of the game - were later offered for sale for thousands of pounds.

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