Security staff around England’s partners and families have been told to look out for flying beer cups – as part of plans to ensure there is no repeat of the soaking some suffered in Cologne.
Mail Sport understands the incident, which saw a number of the loved ones of Three Lions stars drenched after angry fans in an upper tier launched pots into the air at the end of the 0-0 draw with Slovenia, has formed part of pre-match planning for those tasked with looking after the group at tomorrow night’s last-16 clash with Slovakia.
Insiders are confident that the scenes which marred the end of the final group game – in which defender Ezri Konsa said families were hit ‘from all angles’ – will not take place again, not least because fans will not be permitted to bring beers to their seats. However, officials are taking no chances, with England security alerted to the situation.
Family and friends normally sit in an area close to the dugout. That allows players to head over at the final whistle. That has not often been the case in Germany and it is thought that the group will again be spread across the stadium in Gelsenkirchen.
In Cologne, it is not thought that partners, families and friends were targeted, rather they were unfortunate to be situated below those who threw their cups into the air. ‘It was coming from all angles,’ Aston Villa’s Konsa said after his brother got hit. ‘We try not to think about it too much so we move on.’
Security of England players’ partners and families have been told to watch out for flying beer cups against Slovakia
The families were caught up in angry supporters throwing the cups towards Gareth Southgate after draw with Slovenia
Some cups landed near manager Southgate as he applauded Three Lions fans at full time
The incident happened at the same time two cups were thrown at Gareth Southgate as he applauded fans for their vocal backing. ‘I understand the narrative towards me and that’s better for the team than it being towards them,’ he said following the match.
After a u-turn by local police and UEFA, fans will be served normal strength beer in the stadium but unlike other games will not be permitted to bring alcoholic drinks to their seats.
