The situation between Rangers and Czech rivals Slavia Prague was so explosive that the country’s ambassador to the UK had to call Scotland Yard.
That’s according to the Scottish Sun and Liber Secka, who claim that the Slavia team felt so threatened in the aftermath of the Europa League result that the consulate intervened.
Failing to mention the disgraceful “allegations” of racism aimed at Glen Kamara by one of the Slavia players – or the continuing racial abuse of Rangers stars online in the fall-out – Secka claims he cannot comment on the incident because he was not there.
As is stands, Police Scotland are investigating a complaint of assault levelled at Kamara whilst Czech defender Ondrej Kudela is also under investigation for racist abuse.
“We provide a consular service and when our citizens turn to us, we try to find solutions for them,” explains Secka [Scottish Sun].
“The Slavia Prague party called me because they felt threatened. We discussed everything and I found out what the situation was.
“We decided to contact the police here and ask them for increased protection.
“The London headquarters then contacted the Scots, who got in touch with us and assured us they had the situation under control and the team would get to the hotel safely.
“Communication with the police was very good.
“People from Slavia mentioned the incidents, but my concern at the time was not to investigate that, just to provide them with protection.
“I can’t comment on what happened at the stadium, I wasn’t there and it wouldn’t be objective.
“We assisted Slavia until their departure and gave them contacts with the Scottish Police for their criminal complaint.
“I am very sad all this has happened. I have understood sport all my life as a means of connecting people and when the opposite happens, it bothers me terribly and it hurts.”
Yeah – I bet not as much as racist abuse Mr Secka, and this entire debacle could’ve been avoided if the ignorant amongst the Czech ranks were called out for their disgraceful behaviour.
Instead, what we’ve seen is a protection of the racist player and an emboldening of racist language online and from Slavia fans which the Czech club has failed in its responsibilities to prevent.
Racists are cowards – as evidenced by the fact disgraced defender Kudela won’t be travelling with the Czech squad for their match with Wales this week out of fear of repercussions.
