Expert fumes at ‘absolute disgrace’ as Liverpool issue new statement
The handling of the Champions League final was a “disgrace” and it is no wonder that some Liverpool fans are struggling psychologically as a result of the distressing experience.
That is the view of medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in data analysis.
The French police used pepper spray and tear gas indiscriminately on supporters in the build-up to the 1-0 defeat against Real Madrid at the Stade de France last Saturday (28 May)
Uefa have launched an independent review of the chaos that unfolded, and the political fall-out has been wide-reaching.
Liverpool announced on Wednesday (1 May) that they are working with a number of mental health organisations to offer support.
Dinnery insists that fans have been victims of “blame culture”.
“The situation was not handled well,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“There are conflicting reports about what happened in terms of eyewitness accounts and the authorities’ official version.
“There is very much a blame culture. Before a ball has even been kicked, the reputation of British supporters is that they bring a certain level of baggage with them.
“When there is a policy of zero tolerance, there are going to be a lot of innocent young people and supporters caught up in that.
“It’s an absolute disgrace, a joke, a travesty. We have been very lucky that we have avoided any serious physical issues.
“This has implications for future generations of fans. Are young people going to want to go to these games? I wouldn’t want to take my kids.
“It’s bad as an adult, but it must be absolutely terrifying as a kid. That’s very sad.”
Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan has hailed the behaviour of Liverpool fans in Paris.
French interior minister Gerald Darmanin blamed the chaos on ticket fraud.
In other news, Liverpool tipped by pundit to sign Robert Lewandowski after “huge” development.