United fans demand Italian police apology

A Manchester United fan is hurt after being hit on the head by Italian riot policemen during their Champions League football match in Rome, 04 April 2007. A Manchester United supporters group have demanded an apology from Italian police over their treatment at the recent Champions League quarter-final in Rome.

      MANCHESTER, England (AFP) - A Manchester United supporters group have demanded an apology from Italian police over their treatment at the recent Champions League quarter-final in Rome.

      United fans in the Stadio Olympico were baton charged by police after trouble stirred in the stands between the home Italian fans and the visiting supporters.

      United officials condemned the police for over-reacting and lodged a complaint with European football's governing body UEFA over the treatment of their fans by police.

      Now the Independent Manchester United Supporters Association (IMUSA) is demanding a formal apology and threatening legal action if they do not receive it.

      Legal papers are due to be lodged later this week and IMUSA are warning they will pursue the case vigorously until they get a satisfactory outcome.

      "Our supporters were struck with batons and sticks for no good reason and we want an apology," said IMUSA spokesman Colin Hendrie.

      "The authorities in Rome have already admitted too much force was used and confirmation Italian grounds will have stewards instead of police in charge just emphasises something went wrong.

      "We have photographic evidence, not only of beatings, but also of police using the butt-end of their batons to hit supporters, turning them from an object of restraint into an offensive weapon.

      "Those who were injured should be compensated financially and there should be a formal apology. We are prepared to take this matter to court in order to get them."

      United lost the match 2-1 after playing the entire second half with 10 men following Paul Scholes's first half dismisal.

      But the eight-time Premiership champions produced a dazzling display in the return leg in Manchester to run out 7-1 winners and qualify for the semi-finals against AC Milan.