"We will continue until he leaves": The anti-Israel attack against Manor Solomon
Anti-Israel incitement in the UK is once again crossing red lines and reaching directly into England's top football facilities. Last night, pro-Palestinian activists raided the West Ham United "Rush Green" training complex, hanging PLO flags and demanding the removal of Israel national team winger Manor Solomon from the squad.
Anti-Israel incitement in the UK is once again crossing red lines and reaching directly into England's top football facilities. Last night (between Monday and Tuesday), pro-Palestinian activists raided the West Ham United "Rush Green" training complex in London and hung a series of PLO flags along the perimeter fences. In an outrageous video distributed by these hate activists online, it was openly stated that the goal of the move is to exert improper pressure on the Premier League club to drop Israel national team winger Manor Solomon.
The "Hammers" fans fight back
However, contrary to the inciters' expectations, West Ham fans on social media did not remain indifferent and launched a sharp counter-attack in defense of the Israeli player. "Racist idiots, there is no place for racism at West Ham and everyone is welcome here," wrote one of the team's fans. Another fan added with anger: "Faceless cowards, as always. Our country didn't look like this 25 years ago. Disgusting and sickening." Many other comments called on the club's management to stand firm and not be moved by the provocations of a radical fringe.
The dream debut and the Israeli derby in the cup
The ugly attack off the pitch comes just after an excellent personal start for Solomon in the new West Ham kit. The national team star scored a spectacular debut goal in the 2:2 draw against Burnley in the opening round, although in the second round the Hammers suffered a 1:0 loss to Charlton. This evening (Tuesday), Solomon will try to lead his team to its first win of the season in an intriguing cup match against Southampton, where he will face his Israel national team teammate, goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, between the posts.
The provocation at the training complex in London once again illustrates the complex challenges that Israeli legionnaires have been forced to deal with across Europe since the outbreak of the war. Solomon, who possesses rich experience against such hostility, is determined to continue focusing on football and lead West Ham to achievements. The true answer of the Israeli star to all those Israel-haters will be given, as always, with the ball on the pitch.
