England fans threatened by Napoli ultras in chilling letter ahead of Italy game in Naples
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England fans have reportedly been targeted by Napoli ultras ahead of the clash between the Three Lions and Italy.
On Thursday, Gareth Southgate’s England side will play their Euros 2024 qualifier against the reigning champions of Europe Italy in Naples.
It is believed that around 2500 England fans will be making the trip over to Italy to support Southgate’s men.
However, the fixture is in danger of being clouded by potential violence and fan trouble after threatening emails were sent to England fans.
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According to the Daily Mail, England fan group ‘englandfans FC’ were looking to have a friendly game against an Italian fan group ahead of the match.
However, an anonymous note has been sent to organiser Garford Beck after he advertised the friendly match in public.
The note reportedly said: “You be warned only 1 times,” and there were claims that Napolis ultras “are coming for you.”
It continued: “You advertise this game for us to see where you'll be. Stupid man you are. We will be there. 60 ultra to get you. Be warned.”
Now, Beck is believed to be holding talks with Italian fan group FIGC and the authorities, with the fixture between the two sets of fans now in serious jeopardy.
The 60-year-old said: “I was going through my emails and my eyes nearly popped out of my head. I had no choice other than to get in touch with our friends in Italy to see if this was a viable threat.
“They've taken it really seriously and are having meetings with the police and local authority.”
The friendly match between England and Italy fans that had been planned for the day of the Euro qualifier in Naples has now been cancelled after an anonymous threat which warned of an attack by Napoli ultras was sent to the organiser. Very sad.
— Mike Keegan (@MikeKeegan_DM) March 20, 2023
Beck reiterated that the proposed friendly match will not go ahead if the authorities are unable to guarantee their safety.
Ahead of the match, England have been hampered with a string of injury concerns.
Nick Pope, Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount have all pulled out of the squad due to injuries.
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Fraser Forster will come in to replace Pope, whilst it is unclear whether Southgate will name anyone to replace Rashford and Mount.
