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Greek Super League strike threat averted

The union announced its intention to strike on Tuesday in response to growing crowd violence and had support from 10 of the 16 clubs and the international players' union FIFpro.

However, PSAP said in a statement on Thursday it was unable to call a strike because Panionios, Asteras Tripolis Olympiakos Volos, Corfu, Kavala, Ergotelis decided not to take part.

"An essential and necessary condition to implement our action was the participation of the other teams which unfortunately did not want to join our effort for their own reasons, reasons which we do not understand," it said.

"We regret that those six clubs decided not to follow us and we also express our disappointment that there was no response from the Hellenic Football Federation, the Super League and the television channels covering the games of the championship."

The statement added: "It should be noted that the decision of PSAP, its players and the 10 clubs is a measure of responsibility and respect towards the Greek fans, all the players and the institution of the championship for which we at least understand that they should be protected... the message we wished to get across was received by all."

The country was left shocked on Feb. 19 when hundreds of fans invaded the pitch following Olympiakos's tempestuous 2-1 win over closest rivals Panathinaikos.

Panathinaikos assigned bodyguards to several players as the fall-out continued from what has been dubbed the "derby of shame" by Greek media.