Manchester United have sent a letter to supporters to remind them their safety will be at risk if they wear club colours for the Europa League game away to Zorya Luhansk amid fears of further violence.
The club told fans travelling for the game in the Ukrainian city of Odessa on Dec. 8 to avoid drawing attention to themselves as “due to political sensitivity in the region it is not just opposition football fans who may potentially pose a risk to your safety.”
Fenerbahce fans and Feyenoord supporters were reportedly attacked during their group-stage matches, and United, who had issued advice warning of the dangers of the trip when making tickets available in September, have now sent out a reminder to those attending the game.
The club said: “For your safety and security you are advised not to wear Manchester United colours when in the Ukraine or attract attention to your presence in the city. Due to political sensitivity in the region it is not just opposition football fans who may potentially pose a risk to your safety.
“The stadium is within a short walking distance from the city centre and is located within a wooded park where the lighting is very poor.
“For your own safety, shuttle buses will be in operation from 5.45 p.m. (local time) departing from Cathedral Square and you are strongly advised to travel to the stadium on these police escorted buses.
“At the previous group stage games in the city there have been attacks on visiting fans with some in the park around the stadium, so we therefore advise you not to walk through this park to the stadium.
“Incidents of serious disorder during the European Championships in France last summer involving violent individuals and groups emanating from Eastern Europe should be remembered when considering your movements and actions, and any potential risk.”
Zorya are normally based in the city of Luhansk but are playing at Odessa’s Chornomorets Stadium due to the conflict in the east of the country.
United beat Zorya 1-0 at Old Trafford in September.
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