Hooliganism film premieres tonight

A controversial film about soccer violence will be premiered in London tonight – just over a month before the start of the Euro 2004 tournament in Portugal.

Nick Love’s film, from John King’s novel about the infamous Chelsea Headhunters, goes on release on Friday.

Concerns have already been expressed about the content of the film and the timing of its release, as authorities try to keep English soccer hooligans away from Portugal.

The England team has been threatened with expulsion by European football’s governing body, Uefa, if there is a repeat of past troubles involving supporters.

The film is said to include in its promotional credits a number of people who either have convictions or are the subject of banning orders preventing them from travelling to Euro 2004.

Labour MP Alan Keen, chairman of the all-party Parliamentary Football Group, said: “It is unfortunate that this film is being released just before Euro 2004.

“There is no doubt some football hooligans will be influenced by the contents to cause trouble in Portugal.

“Speaking to hooligans for research is fair enough, but actually using them in the film is irresponsible.”

A Home Office spokesman said today: “We cannot comment on the film as we have not seen it.

“In a democracy there is always a balance to strike between freedom of speech and expression and protecting the public from crime.

“However, we unreservedly condemn football hooliganism and those who would incite others to violence.”