Chelsea on Wednesday confirmed that two of their supporters were attacked in Istanbul on the eve of the English club’s Champions League last 16, first leg against Galatasaray.
“Chelsea Football Club is aware of two incidents involving fans in the city last night. The club is working with all relevant agencies, including the police and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, to best ensure the safety of all supporters,” read a statement on their website.
The confirmation comes after it was reported on Tuesday that two supporters of the London side were stabbed following trouble around Taksim Square, in the heart of the city, as fans gathered for Wednesday’s match at the Turk Telecom Arena.
A UK Foreign Office spokesman told AFP on Wednesday morning that they had received no confirmation of any incidents but were “looking into reports”.
English fans have been victims of violence in Istanbul before, with Leeds United supporters Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight stabbed to death before a UEFA Cup tie against Galatasaray in 2000.