Football
PA Sport 7y

Police close investigation into Man United fans' chant at Chelsea

The Metropolitan Police has closed an investigation into allegations of anti-gay chanting at Chelsea's FA Cup win over Manchester United earlier this month.

A complaint was made on March 14, a day after Chelsea's 10 quarterfinal success in a fiery contest at Stamford Bridge, and was focused on the chant of "Chelsea rent boys" directed from the visiting supporters.

The Met said in a statement: "Officers at Hammersmith and Fulham borough received an allegation on Tuesday, March 14 of homophobic chanting at the Chelsea v Manchester United football match at Stamford Bridge on Monday, March 13.

"Following initial police enquiries it was concluded that the matter did not meet the threshold for further investigation and the matter is now closed."

The Football Association is aware of the chant, which has often been used in fixtures between the two clubs.

An FA spokesman said: "We have received a complaint about offensive chanting at this fixture. We take all complaints seriously and look to work collaboratively with clubs, players, managers, officials and safety officers towards eradicating all discriminatory and offensive chanting."

Manchester United and Chelsea next play at Old Trafford in the Premier League on April 16.

A statement from United read: "We are aware of a complaint to the FA. The club aims to work closely with Chelsea to identify anyone believed to have engaged in discriminatory behaviour at the game and will follow the terms of our official sanctions policy if necessary.

"In addition, we will liaise with Chelsea to determine any activity to discourage such behaviour before the next fixture."

Kick It Out, the anti-discrimination charity, is aware of the alleged chant.

Together with the Home Office and True Vision, Kick It Out earlier this month made resources available to clubs in an effort to take on homophobic abuse.

A booklet and pocket guide were produced to help safety officers and stewards deal with homophobic, biphobic and transphobic abuse.

A short film to raise awareness of lesbian, gay and transsexual inclusion in football was also distributed.

^ Back to Top ^