<
>

Turkey goalkeeper Volkan Demirel refuses to play after fan insults

Turkey goalkeeper Volkan Demirel walked out ahead of Sunday's 3-1 Euro 2016 qualifying victory against Kazakhstan following abuse by Turkish fans.

Demirel, 33, was warming up on the pitch ahead of the qualifier, only to walk off after being insulted by supporters. He had initially told the fans to be quiet before then waving sarcastically, removing his gloves and marching away while reportedly close to tears.

The game took place at Galatasaray's Turk Telekom Arena, and the Fenerbahce player has long been a hate figure for Gala fans. Footage of Sunday's incident appears to show the abuse coming from supporters in Galatasaray colours.

"Neither my wife nor my children or my family can escape these curses and insults. I'm not in the mood to play in front of those who swear at me so badly. I'd do more harm than good," Demirel is reported by AFP to have told Turkey coach Fatih Terim.

The behaviour of Demirel, who was replaced in goal by Volkan Babacan, has led to suggestions that he could be set for a fine or suspension, but Terim was quick to say that the incident will first be evaluated properly.

"We will talk about what happened together. Whatever I say will sound irrelevant now," he said. "I need to talk to Volkan and other players first. I don't want to get any false information out there. Volkan was in the changing room and appeared unable to play. He was very upset and left."

There were violent scuffles outside the Turk Telekom Arena, according to Turkish media, as reporters were beaten by security after attempting to approach Demirel as he left the stadium.