EU seeks talks with UEFA's Platini on violence

BRUSSELS, Feb 8 (Reuters) The European Commission called for urgent talks today with the new head of European soccer, Michel Platini, on ways to fight hooliganism and racism.

The move by European Union Justice and Security Commissioner Franco Frattini came after Italy imposed tough security measures despite resistance by clubs following the killing of a policeman by rioting Sicialian fans last week.

''I can confirm that Vice President Frattini has invited Michel Platini, president of UEFA, to discuss issues of violence and racism,'' Commission spokesman Friso Roscam Abbing told a news briefing.

''It's clear it won't be at end of the year because things are urgent. It will be in the coming days or weeks.'' He said Frattini wanted to discuss freedom of movement or travel restrictions on hooligans in the EU, racism in and around stadiums and the exchange of information on hooligans.

''We would also like to discuss with Mr. Platini how far we can support a European approach with the cooperation of UEFA and if possible with fan clubs,'' the spokesman said.

The EU executive stood ready to support actions such as fan coaching to promote a positive, non-violent attitude, he said.

UEFA and world soccer's governing body FIFA have long resisted what they consider political interference in the running of the sport.

The Italian government suspended all soccer matches last Friday after the death in Catania and ordered that matches in stadiums that do not meet tight security regulations be played behind closed doors.

Other measures included a ban on the block sale of tickets to away fans, a beefing-up of stadium bans for those involved in violence, tougher prison sentences for hooliganism and a ban on financial ties between soccer clubs and fan associations.

Platini, a former French international player, supported the Italian Football Federation's decision to suspend play at all levels after the violence. Matches in Italy will resume over the weekend under the new security measures.

A Paris Saint-German supporter was killed last year in an incident involving hooligans, and Dutch Feyenoord fans rioted in France, raising concerns at the return of violence to the sport.

REUTERS SAM PM1856