<
>

Fan arrested for antisemitic language before Tottenham vs. Chelsea clash at Wembley

LONDON -- Metropolitan Police are investigating a 23-year-old man for allegedly using antisemitic language prior to Tuesday's Carabao Cup semifinal first leg between Tottenham and Chelsea at Wembley.

Two other men also arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence, aged 17 and 20, have been released with no further action while a fourth man, aged 30, has been given a police caution after being arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs.

"Four people were arrested at the Tottenham vs. Chelsea match at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday, Jan. 8," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. "Three males were arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence in relation to the use of antisemitic language.

"The 17-year-old and 20-year-old have both since been released with no further action and the 23-year-old man has been released under investigation.

"A fourth man was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs and given a police caution."

Police had warned supporters of both clubs that there would be a "zero tolerance" approach towards antisemitic language at Wembley, while Chelsea have ramped up their efforts to eradicate racist chants and behaviour from their fanbase amid a series of damaging incidents.

Last week a Chelsea supporter was fined £965 and banned from attending football matches for three years after being found guilty of homophobic chants during last month's Premier League match against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.

Chelsea are also under UEFA investigation after a section of their away supporters allegedly sang antisemitic chants during a Europa League group game against Vidi in Hungary, and could face a partial stadium closure for the home leg of next month's round of 32 tie against Malmo.