Tottenham’s major security operation due to fears over Ajax ‘ultras’ ahead of Champions League semi-final
- Tottenham will be wary of potentially troublesome Ajax ultras in Amsterdam
- The Ajax supporters have a notorious reputation and some even carry weapons
- Last year there were 25 arrests in Amsterdam before England played Holland
Tottenham will embark on a major security operation ahead of the potentially troublesome Champions League semi-final against Ajax.
The second leg in Amsterdam on May 8 will be of a particular focus, especially after the ugly scenes that resulted in 25 arrests before England played Holland there last year.
Ajax’s supporters have a notorious reputation. They clashed with Juventus supporters before the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Amsterdam and on the eve of Tuesday’s second leg in Turin, police in Italy stopped 54 weapon-carrying ‘ultras’ and escorted them out of the country. Armoured gloves, mouth guards and pyrotechnics were also found.
Ajax fans celebrate at the end of their huge win over Juventus in the Champions League
Officials from Tottenham and police officers will head to the Dutch capital for a summit over plans for the two games.
Meanwhile, all Eredivisie games on the weekend before the first leg in London have been postponed.
This means Ajax will have a week to prepare for the game, as opposed to Tottenham’s three days.
Tottenham will face a tough opponent, and a potentially troublesome crowd at their stadium