Concern at incidents

UEFA General Secretary Gianni Infantino has expressed the European governing body's concern at spectator incidents that have occurred at UEFA Europa League matches.

Speaking at the UEFA Europa League round of 16 draw ceremony at the House of European Football in Nyon on Friday, Mr Infantino called for united and concerted efforts to ensure an end to such incidents, which he described as "ugly".

"We have to acknowledge around the previous rounds of matches, scenes of violence and racism in and out of the stadiums that neither UEFA nor any true football fan can tolerate," Mr Infantino told the audience.

"That is why we call once again upon all stakeholders to unite and do their utmost to put a full stop to these ugly scenes that we do not want to see any more."

Turning to the UEFA Europa League action, the UEFA General Secretary praised the standard of football on offer as the competition moves towards its climax. "The UEFA Europa League has provided us with top-quality football until now," he said, "and the passion and commitment will certainly reach new heights in the knockout matches to come.

"There are five previous winners of this competition who are still on course to be crowned again. The list of contenders also includes four previous finalists of this competition and three previous UEFA Cup Winners' Cup winners, clearly demonstrating the strength of this season's UEFA Europa League, and the fierce competition we can expect until the final."