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Coufal stands by Czech teammate accused of vile racist comments

Czech Republic defender Vladimir Coufal says the whole squad are united behind Ondrej Kudela. Kudela...


Coufal stands by Czech teammat...

Sport

Coufal stands by Czech teammate accused of vile racist comments


Czech Republic defender Vladimir Coufal says the whole squad are united behind Ondrej Kudela.

Kudela has been accused of racially abusing Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara during a Europa League game.

Slavia Prague defender Kudela is in the Czech squad preparing for Tuesday night's World Cup qualifier with Wales in Cardiff.

Kamara alleges he was called "a fucking monkey" by Kudela during Rangers' Europa League last-16 second leg with Slavia Prague at Ibrox on March 18.

European football's governing body UEFA is investigating the incident.

Kamara revealed after the game, "Kedel (sic) was arguing with a Rangers player and after I tried to intervene, he told me to shut up and then said ‘one second my friend’.

“He then came over to me covering his mouth, leaning into my ear, he uttered the words – ‘You’re a fucking monkey, you know you are.

“I was shocked and horrified to hear such racist abuse from a professional football player.

"Kedel’s claim he simply swore at me and said ‘You’re a fucking guy’ is a complete utter lie, which does not stand up to any form of scrutiny.

“Kedel’s actions were deliberate and premeditated, but he was loud enough for my team-mate Bongani Zungu to hear what was said.

“I am grateful for the unconditional support of my team, our club and especially our manager Steven Gerrard.

Slavia rejected the claim of racism, sticking with Kudela's claim of saying "you fucking guy" to Kamara.

It's a sentiment echoed by his international teammates.

"Of course, everyone from the Czech team stands by Ondrej and everyone is glad that he is here," Coufal told Sky Sports.

"He is an important part of our squad. Other things that happened, I can't comment on.

"I think Ondrej is happy he could be here. He is a big professional and for him, it's no problem."

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Czech Republic Czechia Europa League Glen Kamara Racism Rangers UEFA UEFA Europa League Vladimir Coufal Wales World Cup Qualifiers

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