UEFA launch investigation into claims that monkey noises were aimed at England players during 1-0 victory against Serbia at Euro 2024

UEFA have launched an investigation into claims over monkey noises An inspector has been appointed to carry out a disciplinary probe LISTEN to It's All Kicking Off! How Kylian Mbappe has shown 'astounding' leadership 

UEFA have launched an investigation into claims monkey noises were aimed at England players during the Three Lions’ 1-0 win over Serbia.

The governing body has appointed an inspector to carry out a disciplinary probe ‘regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour’ following a report thought to have been made by a witness in the stands during the first half of the clash in Gelsenkirchen on Saturday night.

UEFA have also charged the Serbian FA with two offences – the throwing of objects and the transmitting of a provocative message ‘unfit for a sports event’.

The latter is understood to relate to the displaying of a flag linked to a paramilitary movement that was engaged in ethnic cleansing during the Yugoslav wars.

A spokesperson added: ‘Furthermore, an UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour.‘

UEFA have launched an investigation into claims monkey noises were aimed at England players during the game against Serbia

The governing body has appointed an inspector to carry out a disciplinary probe ‘regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour’

Information on this matter will be made available in due course.’The match was played out in front of around 50,000, with 8,000 Serbians thought to be in the crowd.

As Mail Sport previously reported, officials spoke to England and captain Harry Kane ahead of the game. Officials toured the continent pre-tournament reminding each nation of the three-step protocol should any racist behaviour be identified and urged players to allow the referee to handle the situation as part of technical briefings. Serbia have a long history of disturbing incidents.

Officials held discussions with England and captain Harry Kane ahead of the game

At the last World Cup, in Qatar, fans displayed fascist slogans and aimed racist chants towards ethnic Albanians during their side's match against Switzerland, while in 2019, they were ordered to play a game behind closed doors following similar behaviour at 4-2 defeat by Portugal in Belgrade.

Two years previously, Partizan Belgrade's Brazilian midfielder Everton Luiz was reduced to tears after being the subject of monkey chants and other abuse from fans of rivals FK Rad.