Vardy's wife says she was tear-gassed by police in Marseille
Rebekah Vardy, the wife of England star Jamie Vardy, said she was tear-gassed by police in Marseille before the Three Lions' violence-ridden meeting with Russia on Saturday night even began.
Her account of her experience raises more questions about the quality of security forces in the city centre and at the Stade Velodrome. After the final whistle, Russians appeared to easily overcome a barrier - if there was one - to menace the England supporters.
Related - England fans: Russians brought England shirts for 'organised' attacks
Rebekah Vardy tweeted:
That has to be up there with the worst experience EVER at an away game! Teargassed for no reason, caged and treated like animals! Shocking!
— Rebekah Vardy (@RebekahVardy) June 11, 2016
I witnessed this with my own eyes! I can't comment on things I didn't see but what I got caught up in was horrific and uncalled for!
— Rebekah Vardy (@RebekahVardy) June 11, 2016
And this happened before the game even kicked off!
— Rebekah Vardy (@RebekahVardy) June 11, 2016
Television presenter Piers Morgan pointed out the severity of her assertions, but Vardy stood firm:
Mr Morgan.....a fact! They closed the gates so the fans couldn't get through then tear gassed us! https://t.co/DByD2tuQUL
— Rebekah Vardy (@RebekahVardy) June 11, 2016
UEFA will meet Tuesday to decide on punishments for the English Football Association and Russian Football Union due to the behaviour of their fans. European football's governing body has also pledged to boost security presence for the remainder of the tournament.
Related: 'Disgusted' UEFA threatens to boot England, Russia if violence persists
England is slated to return to Euro 2016 duty against Wales on Thursday.
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