Turkish ref punched by club president in horror scenes breaks silence as he finally leaves hospital after vile attack
THE TURKISH referee who was punched by a club president has broken his silence on the horror scenes.
Halil Umut Meler spoke to reporters after leaving hospital two days after the horror scenes.
He was attacked by Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca after his side’s 1-1 draw with Rizespor on Monday.
Koca stormed onto the pitch before confronting Meler, with the official kicked on the floor after being punched by the club president.
Meler was later pictured looking battered and bruised in hospital in the wake of the attack.
He was also seen wearing a neck brace when joined by visitors this week.
After being discharged on Wednesday, he spoke to reporters, with Spor Arena reporting he said: “There is no problem with my health.”
Asked if he would continue refereeing, he added: “They called me from UEFA. I will explain these issues later.
“There is no situation at the moment, everything is possible. I just want to go home and rest.”
Monday’s incident caused outrage in Turkey, with president Recep Tayyip amongst those to condemn Koca’s actions.
His attack on Meler prompted the suspension of the Turkish Super Lig, although the action is set to resume on December 19 following fan protests.
Meanwhile, Koca has resigned as Ankaragucu president after a court ordered his arrest on Tuesday.