EXTREME though it may seem for an East Lancashire police chief to travel to Turkey to determine whether it is safe for Blackburn Rovers fans to attend the UEFA Cup clash there, it is a highly sensible step.
For although in principle Rovers' first-round tie with Genclerbirligi in Ankara on September 24 should be watched by all fans in the true spirit of sport, the record of trouble involving British fans at football games in Turkey makes it clear that much hangs on the findings and recommendations of Chief Superintendent David Mallaby's investigations in the Turkish capital.
Rovers' supporters have a reputation for good behaviour. But prevailing animosity between hooligans from Britain and Turkey makes it necessary for him to determine whether it is wise and safe for Rovers to accept tickets for the Ankara clash.
For the combination of past trouble between UK and Turkish fans -- even extending to murder -- and the fact that Rovers' UEFA match is something of a trailer for England's potentially-explosive Euro 2004 qualifier in Turkey just over a fortnight later makes every precaution vital.
No one wants the fun and excitement of Rovers' new UEFA challenge to be dulled by the club's fans being unable to see the game live, but if need be, it is better to be safe than sorry.
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