Aston Villa embroiled in storm as Keir Starmer reacts to Maccabi Tel Aviv latest
Aston Villa are preparing to return to action after a two-week layoff following the latest international break.
Villa are gearing up for their clash against Tottenham on Sunday (19 October) as they look to climb into the top half of the Premier League table.
Unai Emery’s side will then travel to the Netherlands to face Go Ahead Eagles in the Europa League on Thursday (23 October).
Villa beat Feyenoord 2-0 in Rotterdam earlier this month, ensuring they have picked up maximum points from their opening two games in the competition after securing a 1-0 victory over Bologna last month.
However, an issue around the West Midlands giants’ game against Maccabi Tel Aviv next month is suddenly dominating the headlines.
Police make controversial Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv decision
Villa are set to host Maccabi Tel Aviv at Villa Park in their fourth Europa League fixture of the campaign on 6 November.
It has now been confirmed the Israeli side’s supporters will not be allowed to attend the game due to safety concerns.
West Midlands Police has concerns it will not be able to deal with any potential protests that could occur around Maccabi Tel Aviv’s visit to Birmingham.
The move has been greeted with a strong backlash from several stakeholders across the country and overseas.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has now weighed in with his take on the situation.
“This is the wrong decision,” said the Prime Minister.
“We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets. The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation.”
The situation is likely to develop quickly as local authorities continue to face political pressure following the decision.
Aston Villa in talks with Maccabi Tel Aviv
Aston Villa said they are in “continuous dialogue” with Maccabi Tel Aviv and the local authorities, with the safety of supporters and local residents “at the forefront of any decision”.
Lisa Nandy, the culture secretary, is set to meet with officials on Friday (17 October) to discuss the decision to block the Israeli club’s fans from attending the fixture.
While Emery will be aware of the situation, the Villa boss will be ensuring his side are fully focused on their trip to Tottenham on Sunday.
Villa beat Burnley 2-1 in their latest fixture before the international break following a tricky start to the new season.
They currently sit 13th in the Premier League table after picking up nine points from their opening seven games of the campaign.
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