FA calls for Fifa probe into Heskey 'racism'
FA asks Fifa to look at allegations of racist abuse towards Emile Heskey by Croatia fans
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By inthenews. |  |
Thursday, 11, Sep 2008 10:40
The Football Association has requested that football's world governing body Fifa look into allegations of racist chanting aimed at Emile Heskey by Croatian fans last night.
It has been alleged by the FA that the England striker was subjected to "racial abuse" from the stands at the Maksimir Stadium during the World Cup qualifier.
Heskey played a part in England's second and third goals as the visitors sealed a comfortable 4-1 victory, leaving the hosts' players and fans visibly shell-shocked.
However, the FA has demanded Fifa launch an investigation into the alleged behaviour of certain sections of the Croatian support.
An FA spokesman said: "We can confirm that we will be making a report to Fifa about the racist chanting aimed at Emile Heskey by some Croatia fans during the World Cup qualifying game in Zagreb.
"It is unacceptable for anyone to be subjected to racial abuse and we will be asking Fifa to investigate this.
"The FA and England team are determined to do all they can to eradicate any form of racism from football and society."
The probe will not be the first time Croatia have been in trouble with the authorities over racist elements within their fanbase.
Prior to the Euro 2008 qualifier against England two years ago, the Croatian team paraded an anti-racism banner on the pitch at the same stadium to encourage the nation's far-right element of supporters to behave.
Tannoy announcements were also made to try to combat potential problems.
These measures were introduced in order to stamp out fears over the racist reputation Croatian fans had garnered in Euro 2004, when the team were sanctioned after supporters displayed extremist banners and slogans.
Similar problems were also experienced within the support groups for Croatian club sides competing in Europe in subsequent seasons.