Behind-the-scenes footage of Kudela emerges after racism storm in Rangers v Slavia Prague
STV journalist Raman Bhardwaj has shared footage of Ondrej Kudela making a hasty exit from Ibrox on Thursday night after he was caught up in a racism storm in Rangers’ defeat to Slavia Prague.
Glen Kamara was allegedly racially abused on the pitch by Kudela in the Europa League last-16 tie at Ibrox.
Slavia Prague have since rejected the “imaginary accusation of racism” in a shocking statement on their website, which also alleges Kudela was hit in the face by Kamara in the presence of Steven Gerrard after the game.
As quoted by talkSPORT after the game, Gerrard backed Kamara, saying he “100 per cent” believes the midfielder’s accusation and confirmed other players heard what was allegedly said to the Finland ace.
Kudela was the subject of the media’s focus after the game and Bhardwaj caught a clip of the Slavia Prague centre-back rushing onto the team bus, which was shared on Twitter.
Sour note to end superb European campaign
Deep down, we all knew we’d get beaten in the Europa League at some point and after Slavia Prague’s impressive showing against Leicester in the last round, we know that getting past them would be tough.
But to see and read about what happened at Ibrox on Thursday night is absolutely gut-wrenching.
Slavia’s stance is deplorable, as are the actions of Kudela and anyone else who stands by someone who is accused of racism.
Kamara’s reaction was absolutely understandable and we’re happy to see Gerrard stand by the midfielder at what is undoubtedly a low point in his whole life, let alone his football career.
No one should suffer the abuse he allegedly suffered.
And no club should be allowed into UEFA competitions if they’re so quick to brush racism under the carpet as ridiculously easy as Slavia have done.
The word “imaginary” in their statement makes you sick to the stomach. What proof do they have? One player’s word?
Gerrard has confirmed other Rangers players heard what was said and from watching replays, Bongani Zungu definitely knew what was said.
UEFA should be throwing the book at Slavia and Kudela for this.
In other Rangers news, Jason Cundy has dubbed this Gers player a coward after the defeat to Slavia Prague.