London – Three Tottenham fans were injured after being attacked at a pub in Lyon by about 50 masked thugs ahead of a Europa League match against the French club.
Tottenham said Thursday that arrests were made relating to the incident that occurred late Wednesday at the Smoking Dog, a pub popular among British people in the French city.
“Three fans sustained minor injuries and received prompt medical assistance,” Tottenham said.
It is the second time in three months that Tottenham fans have been targeted before a European game. In November, seven people were injured – one with a knife wound – following an apparent anti-Semitic attack at a pub in Rome.
Tottenham are known for having a large Jewish fan base from north London.
Tottenham officials have played down the latest incident, saying it isn't comparable to the one in Rome and that no serious injuries were sustained.
“Spurs officials and stewards will be in the city throughout the day, along with matchday French police ahead of kickoff,” the club said.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said “it was aware of reports of an attack on British nationals in France”.
Like French club Paris Saint-Germain, Lyon has a far-right contingent among its fans, some of whom form part of a group called “Bad Gones”. – Sapa-AP