BAT’S MAGIC FOR FRANK Reds fans in Origi racist banner shame
GENK............1 LIVERPOOL...4
LIVERPOOL could be in trouble with UEFA after last night’s Champions League win in Genk was marred by an offensive banner in the away end. A flag showing an explicit mock-up image of Liverpool’s Belgian striker Divock Origi, which had racial implications, was confiscated by the club’s own stewards but an Anfield statement said: ‘Liverpool FC condemns the offensive banner displayed in our section of the ground prior to kick-off. The image perpetuated a racist stereotype. This is completely unacceptable.’ Manager Jurgen Klopp, when asked about the banner, would only say: ‘I know the club have
spoken about it,’ after Alex OxladeChamberlain’s classy double set Liverpool on their way, with Sadio Mane and Mo Salah also scoring. But Liverpool’s spokesperson added: ‘We acted swiftly to have the banner removed and we are now working with the local authorities and the stadium team in Genk to identify those responsible. Any subsequent action will be taken in keeping with our sanctions process.’ UEFA did not comment on the matter last night, but it is almost certain they will take some action against Liverpool. Last year, Bayern Munich were fined £22,000 for an ‘illicit banner’ on display during their semi-final with Real Madrid. Origi (right) is a cult hero with Liverpool fans, having scored the goal that completed the 2-0 victory in last season’s Champions League final against Tottenham. The Belgian, who started his career at Genk, also struck twice in the epic 4-0
semi-final second-leg defeat of Barcelona at Anfield. As for the victory, Klopp told BT Sport: ‘The start was brilliant, we were kind of fluent and asked them a lot of questions but then we started — I’m not sure why — to lose patience and some easy balls. ‘But all four goals were brilliant and we had chances to score more. Job done. In the years before we would have drawn it, maybe even lost, but all’s OK. I didn’t enjoy the game too much, but I enjoyed the result.’ l LIONEL MESSI made Champions League history last night as Barcelona won 2-1 at Slavia Prague to top Group F. Messi became the first player to score in 15 consecutive seasons of the competition when he put Barca ahead inside three minutes.