Fears over potential trouble at the Champions League final in Athens and problems finding accommodation are being exaggerated, according to one Liverpool fans group.Reds chief executive Rick Parry has voiced his concerns over security issues as many supporters are expected to travel without tickets.
Either Manchester United or AC Milan await in the final but with the age-old rivalry between the north-west clubs and the problems associated with Italian teams this season worries are growing that the final will not pass off without trouble.
Add to that the fact that today there appeared to be no hotel rooms available in Athens between May 22 and May 24 and UEFA's showpiece event could be overshadowed by events off the pitch.
However, Leigh Andrews, of the Leeds branch of the Liverpool Supporters' Club, played down those fears.
"I understand the Greek police don't hold back if there is trouble," said Andrews, who was in Istanbul when Liverpool beat AC Milan on penalties in 2005.
"But there weren't any problems against Milan two years ago and I hope there woldn't be trouble if it was against Manchester United.
"But I wouldn't say I haven't got any worries because unfortunately there will be a huge demand for black-market tickets."
Many fans are currently investigating their travel plans but Andrews said the location could deter some from travelling, with the apparent lack of accommodation meaning those who do make the trip having to face paying over the odds or finding alternative arrangements.
"It is an awkward place to get to and people have already been looking at the options," he added.
"One lad has booked a flight from Leeds to Dusseldorf and then on to Athens but if his flight into Germany is late he will miss the game altogether - which is a big risk.
"I've thought about having a week in Corfu or Crete.
"What happens is people book these hotels well in advance and then sell them on again and make a killing.
"I think one or two of the younger ones will not mind roughing it on a park bench for the night but I prefer a proper bed."
Date:2 May 2007
Credit:www.sportinglife.com
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