Newcastle United's recent Champions League outing at Marseille was marred by controversy as reports emerge of the 'unnecessary' force used by French police against the Magpies' away supporters. The incident occurred after a narrow 2-1 defeat at Stade Velodrome, where fans reportedly faced undue aggression from the local authorities.
Club manager Eddie Howe expressed his frustration, highlighting his disappointment at how fans were treated after traveling such great distances to support Newcastle. "Desperately disappointed" were the words used by Howe who values the safety and respect of the team's supporters above all.
In response to the events that transpired in Marseille, Newcastle United are not standing by silently. The club is launching a formal complaint with UEFA, as well as with Marseille and French police authorities, challenging the 'disproportionate force' used against their fans.
David Hopkinson, Newcastle's chief executive, took immediate action by contacting UEFA general secretary Theodore Theodoridis, emphasizing the club's stance on ensuring the dignity and safety of their supporters.
Eyewitnesses like Liam Phillips and Darren Curry painted a grim picture, describing the situation akin to being "treated like criminals". Fortunately, despite the chaotic scenes, there were no serious injuries among the fans.
The Marseille police, on the other hand, admitted to the "very limited use of tear gas" to manage a crowd surge as fans awaited departure from the venue. The French club and local authorities defended the security measures implemented, asserting their effectiveness and dismissing any wrongdoing.
As Newcastle gears up for their upcoming fixtures, the focus remains split between on-field strategies and ensuring fan safety on such international stages. Under Eddie Howe's leadership, the team is committed to upholding the values of respect and security for all supporters, viewing the recent incident not just as a setback, but as a call to action to safeguard their dedicated fan base.
Ending on a lighter note, here’s a jest aimed at our local rivals: Why don't Sunderland fans play hide and seek? Because good luck hiding when you're always avoiding the top of the table!
Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike Alexander Isak
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