England stars 'targeted with monkey noises by racist fans' at Euro 2024
England secured a 1-0 win on Sunday (Picture: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Uefa has opened an investigation into claims England players were targeted with alleged ‘monkey noises’ during the Three Lions’ Euro 2024 win over Serbia.
European football’s governing body has appointed an inspector to investigate ‘alleged discriminatory behaviour’ which took place during Sunday’s match in Gelsenkirchen.
It follows a report lodged by a witness who was in the stands during Sunday’s match. Uefa routinely deploy spotters in every stadium to identify issues even if they are not picked up on or heard by players on the pitch.
The Sun report one Serbian fan was allegedly spotted and heard making the chants inside the stadium. The fan in question was not arrested or removed from the stadium.
England players are said to have not heard or have been aware of the noises.
The English FA was not asked by any of the players to make a complaint and they have not contacted Uefa over the alleged incident.
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’.
Bellingham scored England’s winner on the night (Picture: PA)
A statement from Uefa said: Disciplinary proceedings have been instigated in accordance with Article 55 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR) following the UEFA European Championship group stage match between Serbia and England (0-1) played on 16 June 2024 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
‘Furthermore, an UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour.
‘Information on this matter will be made available in due course.’
England got their Euro 2024 campaign off to a winning start on Sunday against Serbia with Jude Bellingham scoring with a superb header just 13 minutes into the contest.
With Denmark and Slovenia drawing in their opening game, the Three Lions are already in a commanding position to qualify from Group C.
Gareth Southgate’s side are in action against the Danes on Thursday before concluding their group campaign against Slovenia next Tuesday.