The latest twist in the ongoing racism dispute between Rangers and Slavia Prague sees Czech defender Ondřej Kúdela miss out on a trip to Wales.
The Slavia Prague centre-back stands accused of racially abusing Glen Kamara during the Czech side’s 2-0 win over Rangers at Ibrox last week.
This story has dominated news wires across the globe with all eyes on UEFA and how they handle the situation following the aggressive response of Slavia themselves.
They deny these allegations and instead have levelled an accusation of assault against Glen Kamara to the police in response to the midfielder’s claims.
Rangers, in turn, have complained about the racist abuse to the police with earlier reports suggesting Kúdela would be questioned when returning to the UK for Slavia when they visit Arsenal in the Europa League next month.
However, after being included in the Czech squad for the latest round of internationals, the 33-year-old could be questioned should he travel with the Czechs for their World Cup Qualifier with Wales this week.
Slavia are now suggesting that the defender won’t be travelling to the UK in order to “aide” the police and UEFA in their investigations and due to “security” concerns.
“SK Slavia is supportive of a thorough investigation of all relevant facts and will fully cooperate with Police Scotland and UEFA. Today, Mr Kudela provided UEFA with a full statement regarding the ongoing investigation,” reads a statement from the lawyers representing the defender.
“The speculation published in the media about the possible arrest of Ondrej Kudela is incorrect.
“Police Scotland have confirmed to SK Slavia’s lawyers that the investigations are at an early stage and that Mr Kudela is fully co-operating.
“To aide SK Slavia with co-operating with UEFA and Police Scotland, and out of concern for the safety of Ondrej Kudela, SK Slavia decided in cooperation with the national team management not to release Mr Kudela for the match of the Czech national team in Wales.”
This is the latest twist of a saga which has seen Slavia embolden racism within their own ranks with their defensive response and it’s certainly not over yet as Rangers demand justice.
Kamara plays for the Finnish national team and the midfielder would’ve been buoyed by the reaction of his international teammates who took a firm stance alongside him.
