Chelsea have issued a warning to their fans ahead of their trip to Wembley for the Capital One Cup final on Sunday.
The club released a statement warning their supporters about their conduct when they face Tottenham in the wake of the racist incident in Paris after their Champions League game.
Footage that surfaced after their game with Paris-Saint Germain showed a group of Chelsea fans not letting a black man board the Paris Metro as well as singing: “We’re racist, we’re racist and that’s the way we like it.”
The appalling behaviour has led to several Chelsea fans being banned from Stamford Bridge as well as facing charges from the police.
The issue has arisen again before the cup final as anti-semitic chants have previously been a problem in games involving Tottenham, owing to their historical links with London’s Jewish population.
This was evident after Spurs’ game with West Ham at the weekend when a group of West Ham fans were filmed singing offensive anti-semitic songs on the London Underground. Chelsea obviously want to avoid anymore incidents like this.
Statement
The statement on Chelsea’s official website said: “After consultation between the Metropolitan Police and both clubs, we would like to remind supporters of their responsibilities on the day.
"For a small minority, this game has historically brought a deeply unpleasant and unwanted level of anti-Semitic abuse, which has no place in football or anywhere in society. As such, we urge everyone to keep their support positive.
"Opposition supporters using terms as a form of identity is no excuse for abusive chanting or behaviour. The club asks that all supporters realise such actions cause huge offence to those around them.
"If we receive evidence that supporters have engaged in anti-Semitic or any other form of discriminatory chanting or behaviour, we will take the strongest possible action, including supporting criminal prosecution.
"Recent events in Paris have seen Chelsea fans united in their contempt for a mindless few. Chelsea is proud of the diversity within our club and our vision embraces equality regardless of race, gender, sexuality, disability or religion.
"We all share the common cause of supporting our team.”
Will Chelsea win the Capital One Cup?
Chelsea take on Tottenham in the final of the Capital One Cup at Wembley on Sunday at 4pm.
Will Jose Mourinho's side have enough to win on Sunday afternoon? Post your score predictions in the box below!
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