Andriy Shevchenko plays down racism worries

Andriy Shevchenko has calmed fears that Euro 2012 will be marred by racist sections of the Ukraine population.

Former England defender Sol Campbell earlier stated his belief that the Scandinavian country should not have been chosen to host the tournament due to problems with violence and racism among some football fans.

However, former Chelsea striker Shevchenko, who will represent Ukraine at this summer's competition, has insisted that his country will be friendly and welcoming to all travelling supporters and players.

"We don't have a real problem here about racism. The country's very quiet and people are very friendly," he told BBC Sport.

"I know the country did everything to make this competition very good. I know how much work the country tried to do airports, in streets, stadium in the last five years.

"We never have heard problems about racism."

The family of Arsenal and England midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain admitted that they are considering not travelling due to fears over their safety.