Manchester City have banned two supporters for vile chants about Sir Bobby Charlton after the former Manchester United player’s death on Saturday.
The club launched an investigation and apologised after individuals were filmed singing about Charlton at half-time in City’s match against Brighton on Saturday in response to the announcement of former England international’s death. City reviewed CCTV footage to identify those involved after complaints were made.
A statement on Thursday read: “Manchester City can confirm that two minors have been identified in connection with the vile chanting heard at the Etihad Stadium during half-time of last weekend’s home match against Brighton.
“The individuals in question have subsequently been suspended from attending all home or away fixtures and their details have been shared with Greater Manchester Police who are investigating the matter.
“Following the conclusion of Greater Manchester Police’s ongoing investigation, the individuals will be subject to the club’s official sanctions and bans process.”
The length of those bans will be confirmed by City after the police, who are investigating whether criminal action will be taken, have concluded their work. “On this day of all days, when the stadium stood to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game,” a City statement on Sunday read.
City face Manchester United on Sunday at Old Trafford, where a minute’s applause will take place to honour Charlton’s life.
