Manchester City Football Club News

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UEFA launches probe

19 Jun 2007 - 08:55:42

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UEFA has launched an investigation into the problems that surrounded the game between England Under-21s and their Serbian counterparts in the European Championships.

The Football Association had earlier launched a formal complaint to European football's governing body about the Serbian fans' racist behaviour towards Nedum Onuoha during England's 2-0 win.

UEFA will look into the behaviour of the Serbian fans and their players during and after the match, but England also face proceedings for the alleged "improper conduct" of their players after the match.

An FA spokesman said: "We take racism and other forms of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously and have asked UEFA to investigate these incidents as a matter of urgency."

The sports minister, Richard Caborn, added: "No player should have to tolerate such abuse which brings disgrace to the game. I urge UEFA to investigate the matter immediately."

Onuoha was subjected to monkey chants from Serbian supporters during England's win that sealed their place in the semi-finals of the competition.

There were also problems on the pitch as Serbia took exception to the manner of England's second goal when Matt Derbyshire netted while an opposition player lay injured.

In the melee that erupted later it was claimed that Arsenal's Justin Hoyte was racially abused in the tunnel.