Liverpool fans travelling to Kiev rage at parade plans that give them no chance of getting back in time for Champions League celebrations
Plans have been drawn up for the day after the May 26 final in Kiev
LIVERPOOL fans were left frustrated over plans for a victory parade should their team win the Champions League.
Plans have been drawn up for the day after the May 26 final in Kiev – meaning supporters at the game stand no chance of getting back in time.
The fact there are no direct flights to Liverpool airport from Kiev, and that the last one on Saturday goes before the end of the game, means Reds fans will not return until late on Sunday at the earliest.
Victory in Kiev would see the team return on Sunday May 27 to take an open-top coach along Liverpool's waterside with the route finishing close to the Liverpool Olympia concert venue.
But city is hosting the Three Festivals Tall Ships Regatta and the Bordeaux Wine Festival the same weekend.
And that means the route would not take in Queens Drive, St George’s Hall and Anfield, which open-top parades have done in the past. Some fans appear irritated by that...
Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson, an Everton fan, said: "Regardless of whether you are a Red, Blue or not a football fan at all, an event like this has a hugely positive impact and will once again shine the international spotlight on the city.
"We are all tremendously proud of LFC's achievement and you can already feel the buzz around the city ahead of the final.
"The club requested the parade takes place on the Sunday, and even though it's already a busy day for the city, we want to make sure we are ready to give them the heroes' welcome they deserve should they win.
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"I understand there will be disappointment for those fans who are unable to get back from Kiev in time, but it was a similar situation in 2005 and we have to be guided by the club in terms of the date and time.
"We're keeping everything crossed for the final and hope the team and the fans do Liverpool proud in Kiev as they have throughout the competition."