Overview
- Newcastle says French police used pepper spray, batons and shields on away supporters as they left the Stade Vélodrome after Tuesday's 2-1 defeat.
- Travelling fans were held inside for up to an hour under a plan to escort groups of 500 to the Metro, with distress and crushing reported in the away concourse.
- Club stewards and senior staff observed the operation and raised concerns on site, but say this had little effect on police tactics.
- The club will raise the issue with UEFA, Olympique de Marseille and French police, is liaising with the UKFPU, and is asking fans to submit footage and accounts.
- UEFA, Marseille and local police offered no immediate comment when asked by reporters, while a former refereeing chief said the match observer’s report is likely to prompt a review.