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7:59:08 PM
Uefa powerless to act on rioting

No action is likely to be taken against Rangers as a result of rioting in Manchester city centre following Wednesday's Uefa Cup final.


Uefa has received the match delegate's report on the showpiece event.


And spokesman William Gaillard said: "Our disciplinary procedures only apply for events which occur at the stadium or within the perimeter."


But the governing body will review the pitch invasion by Zenit supporters and the stabbing of a Russian fan.


That remains under investigation by authorities in Manchester and Uefa will await further information before deciding on whether to impose any sanctions on the Ibrox club.








Rangers' chief executive Martin Bain has already stated his belief that the violence was caused "by fans who don't normally attach themselves to our support".


And Stephen Smith of the Rangers Supporters' Trust said the fans' group hoped the club would act against those responsible, including the penalty of lifetime bans from Ibrox.


"It was a very small minority who were responsible and the vast majority were a credit to the club," he said.


"We would want any of those individuals who are identified to be receiving punitive sanctions from the club, and I am sure they will."


Meanwhile, Rangers chairman Sir David Murray has revealed the club will issue bans to anyone found guilty of causing trouble in the wake of the violence which followed Wednesday's match.

















The club will process bans with immediate effect






Rangers chairman Sir David Murray







Police officers were attacked after a big screen due to broadcast the game to 20,000 fans in Piccadilly Gardens failed before kick-off on Wednesday evening.


"The club can confirm that we are already taking steps to deal with the people who have appeared in court and have been convicted of involvement in the disturbances on Wednesday," said Murray.


"And they can consider themselves banned from any further recognised involvement with the club.


"The club will process bans with immediate effect."


The Prime Minister condemned the supporters involved in the violent clashes with police and said public drinking laws would also be reviewed.











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"Since Wednesday night, the club has worked non-stop analysing the disturbances which occurred in Manchester," said Murray.


"On behalf of the club, I am grateful for the recognition from Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police and many Mancunians that the overwhelming majority of our supporters behaved well during their visit to the city and were a credit to the club," he said


"We deplore the actions of a small minority who were involved in the disturbances and support the severest action taken against them.


"We are continuing to liaise with the police and city councils in Manchester and Glasgow and will be assessing all relevant information over the coming days, including numerous reports given to us by our supporters, before making any further statement."





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