Chelsea investigate fan racism claims
Reuters - Thursday 01 November 2012, 12:39
Chelsea and British police have launched investigations after a
supporter was photographed making an apparent racist gesture during
Wednesday's League Cup match against Manchester United.
Pictures
published on the internet appear to show a man making a monkey gesture
in the stands during Chelsea's 5-4 extra-time victory at Stamford
Bridge.
"Chelsea Football
Club can confirm we are investigating an incident involving a member of
the crowd at last night's game against Manchester United," the club said
in a statement.
"The club
will be examining all available footage and asks anyone who can identify
the individual to contact the club. Chelsea FC is committed to removing
all forms of discrimination and if we have sufficient evidence we will
take the strongest possible action, including supporting criminal
prosecution."
The Metropolitan Police are also investigating after receiving a complaint.
"An investigation has been launched. There have been no arrests and enquiries continue," they said in a statement.
The
incident comes three days after the Premier League encounter between
the two clubs when Chelsea accused referee Mark Clattenburg of using
inappropriate language towards midfielder John Obi Mikel.
The
English players' union boss Gordan Taylor confirmed this week that
Clattenburg is facing allegations he used racist language.
Chelsea
captain John Terry is currently serving a four-match ban for racially
abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.