David O'Leary fears crowd violence may erupt again in Turkey following UEFA's decision to stage next season's Champions League final in Istanbul.
O'Leary was manager of Leeds when two of their fans were stabbed to death in the city before a UEFA Cup clash with Galatasaray just under three years ago.
Now Aston Villa boss, O'Leary is concerned crowd problems could resurface - especially with Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal all likely to be strong contenders to qualify for the latter stages of the competition in 2004-2005.
Only four months ago England fans were banned from travelling to Turkey for a Euro 2004 qualifier.
O'Leary said: "I am very surprised they are holding the final in Turkey.
"I think the new stadium [the Ataturk Olympic) is magnificent. But I think to hold it there leaves things very vulnerable because there is every chance an English team could be in the Champions League final - via Manchester United, Arsenal or Chelsea.
"It's a volatile place. You leave yourself wide open. For me, when you have the choice of magnificent stadia all around Europe you always take the safe bet and nullify the risk factor."
O'Leary believes the potential for violence is so obvious that UEFA may have to think again if an English club does reach the final.
"If an English team gets to the final could you keep the game there or will it be changed?" he asked.
PA