• Flight from Moscow to Manchester on Sunday diverted • Seven Russian fans ejected at Copenhagen airport

This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

A flight carrying CSKA Moscow fans to Manchester had to be diverted to Denmark to eject drunken passengers.

The Easyjet flight from Moscow was forced to land at Copenhagen Airport at 3.15pm on Sunday amid reports one drunken CSKA supporter had started pushing staff on board. Six of his friends were then also escorted from the service after complaining about his treatment.

The fans were en route to Manchester for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Manchester City, and have since booked new flights ahead of kick-off.

An Easyjet spokesman said: "Easyjet can confirm that flight EZY1872 flying from Moscow Domodedovo to Manchester on 3 November diverted to Copenhagen airport due to the disruptive behaviour of a passenger on board. One passenger was immediately offloaded on arrival.

"Unfortunately, prior to take off, it was necessary for the captain to take the decision to offload a further six passengers. The aircraft then continued towards Manchester where it landed with a short delay."

He added: "The safety and welfare of its passengers and crew is Easyjet's highest priority and Easyjet would like to thank the passengers for their understanding and apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Manchester City, meanwhile, have decided to deploy Russian translators at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday to monitor the language used by CSKA's fans. The move comes amid continued controversy following the racist abuse of Yaya Touré during City's 2-1 win at the Kimkhi Arena on 23 October.