UEFA claims no risk to Europa final
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E-mail Shanghai Daily, May 24, 2017
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UEFA confirm Europa League final to go ahead but will increase security in wake of Manchester attack. |
After a deadly bombing at a concert in Manchester, UEFA said yesterday it has "no specific intelligence" that the Europa League final featuring Manchester United will be a target.
United plays Ajax Amsterdam today in Stockholm, and security was already intensified following a deadly truck attack in the Swedish capital last month.
"The terrorist risk had been taken into account since the very beginning of the project," UEFA said, noting it has worked with Swedish authorities "for many months" to plan for the game.
"There is currently no specific intelligence which might suggest that any of the UEFA Europa League Final activities in Stockholm may be the target of attacks," UEFA said in a statement.
At least 22 people were killed when an apparent suicide bomber attacked an Ariana Grande concert as the performance ended on Monday night in Manchester.
United players observed a minute's silence for the victims at a Tuesday morning training session before flying to Sweden.
United coach Jose Mourinho's scheduled news conference later in the day at the Friends Arena in Stockholm was canceled at the club's request, UEFA said.
Stockholm police spokesman Kjell Lindgren said there has been no threat to today's match. "Now, we are prepared for every possible and thinkable (thing) that could happen in Stockholm tomorrow, including terrorist attacks, and we are satisfied with our preparations," he said.
"Ajax joined many in the soccer world expressing support for the victims.
"From Amsterdam with love to Manchester," the Dutch team posted on its official Twitter account. "Our thoughts are with the victims and the loved ones of those affected."
Former United greats used social media to show support for the city of Manchester.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Twitter account had a post of a British flag with "MANCHESTER" written across the red central stripe.
David Beckham wrote on Facebook: "As a father & a human what has happened truly saddens me."
The club said its "staff are ready to help the police and other emergency services in any way that may be required at this challenging time for our city."
Old Trafford, including a club store and museum, was closed yesterday.
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany wrote on Twitter: "I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims. It's a sad day for the great city of Manchester. #Unity."
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