Czech Republic star Vladimir Coufal insists the team ‘stands by’ Ondrej Kudela and are ‘glad’ he has travelled to Wales for World Cup qualifier despite defender allegedly racially abusing Rangers’ Glen Kamara
Czech Republic defender Vladimir Coufal has insisted his team-mates are standing by Ondrej Kudela despite him allegedly racially abusing Glen Kamara.
Kudela is currently under investigation by UEFA after the incident took place during Slavia Prague’s Europa League last-16 clash against Rangers.
After initially appearing set to miss out on travelling to Wales with his compatriots, Kudela has now flown out – and Coufal is pleased he will line up next to him again.
Czech Republic defender Vladimir Coufal insists the team stand by team-mate Ondrej Kudela
Kudela (centre) has flown to Wales despite being under investigation for alleged racial abuse
‘Of course, everyone from the Czech team stands by Ondrej and everyone is glad that he is here,’ Coufal said.
‘He is an important part of our squad. Other things that happened, I can’t comment on.
‘I think Ondrej is happy he could be here. He is a big professional and for him, it’s no problem.’
Slavia Prague’s Kudela allegedly directed vile racial abuse at Rangers’ Glen Kamara this month
Slavia Prague have categorically denied the allegations that Kudela directed racial abuse at Kamara during the fixture on March 18.
It was confirmed last week that Police Scotland have also launched a probe.
Rangers midfielder Kamara was visibly furious immediately after Kudela walked up to him and, cupping his hand around his mouth, allegedly called him a ‘f****** monkey’.
Due to the ongoing situation, Kudela’s club originally refused to allow him to travel to take part in the 2022 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Police launched an investigation after Kamara (R) claimed Kudela called him ‘ a f****** monkey’
Kudela (pictured with Steven Gerrard) is also under investigation by UEFA after the incident
It was revealed that they feared for his safety if he returned to the UK – but they have ultimately relented and Kudela will play a part in Cardiff.
Czech Republic boss Jaroslav Silhavy was adamant during his pre-match press conference that Kudela is ready to play.
He said: ‘We are not going to specify the safety measures but, of course, we are proceeding with the wish of the player and the players.
Czech Republic boss Jaroslav Silhavy is adamant that defender Kudela will be ready to feature
‘The team is happy that Kudela is here with us and they are ready for the match.
‘It’s obviously quite uncomfortable what’s happening, especially for Ondrej. But I don’t think it’s affected him and he’s prepared for the match.
‘It was clear for me that I wanted him here and I would like to thank those that could sort it out for Ondrej to be with us.’