Coventry fans hung banners from bridges ahead of the clash with Leicester – including some mocking the death of Foxes owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.
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Coventry fans hang sick banners over M69Images mocked death of Vichai SrivaddhanaprabhaLeicester owner died in 2018 helicopter crashWHAT HAPPENED?
It is known as the 'M69 derby' for the motorway that links the two midlands cities, but Coventry fans trying to give travelling Leicester supporters a hostile welcome went way too far by hanging offensive banners above the road, including references to the 2018 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of the late Leicester owner – Khun Vichai – and four others. The banners were removed by West Midlands Police.
Coventry responded with a statement condemning the behaviour of those involved and vowing to work with police to identify the culprits and take action against them in the form of bans.
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A statement read: "Coventry City completely condemns incidents today which have seen banners being displayed containing offensive content directed at Leicester City Football Club. Coventry City will work with West Midlands Police to identify those who created and displayed these banners, and take appropriate action against them. Such behaviour has no place in football or society, and these people are not welcome at our Football Club and will be subject to bans."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Millwall fans appearing to mock the crash with helicopter hand gestures during last weekend's FA Cup tie between the clubs were widely condemned for their behaviour. Those responsible then looked to have been told to leave The Den by nearby stewards. Leicester won the game 3-2 to advance to the fourth round.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR LEICESTER & COVENTRY?
As runaway Championship leaders, Leicester look set for an immediate return to the Premier League just a year after their shock relegation. The Foxes are also on course to smash the second tier's all-time points record, currently 105 set by Reading in 2005-06. Coventry have promotion hopes of their own, having been out of the top flight ever since 2001, but sit just outside the playoff places for now.