Zenith have assured Liverpool that visiting
fans attending Thursday's Europa League
last 32 first leg tie in St Petersburg will
feel safe and secure after concerns were
raised over racism.
"The club's personnel and security services at the
stadium have been working hard so that the players
and fans alike would enjoy tomorrow's match," the
Russian champions said on their website (www.fc-
zenit.ru) on Wednesday.
"Zenit have always condemned any form of racism.
We hope our opponents share the same principles
and tomorrow we all be treated to a great football
match and passionate crowd support."
Zenit supporters have been notorious for racist
chanting during home games while the city of St
Petersburg is known to have a strong right-wing
nationalist influence.
In December, Zenit's largest fan group demanded
the club refrain from buying black and gay players
following turmoil surrounding the acquisition of
Brazil striker Hulk. The fans said they want more
home-grown or European players in the team.
Zenit are the only top club in Russia to have never
signed an African-born player.