The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that they will investigate footage of Arsenal fans singing a homophobic song about former player Ashley Cole.
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The video was supposedly shot by a supporter in the Green Man pub near Wembley ahead of the Gunners FA Cup semi-final with Reading at the weekend.
The footage appears to show Arsenal music group the ‘Away Boyz’ singing to in front of a packed area of fans to the tune of Lily Allen’s song ‘Smile’ with a number of offensive lyrics being aimed toward Cole.
One heard in the clip, that has sine been deleted on Twitter, is said to have been, “Ashley Cole is a Chelsea batty boy,” according to Attitude Magazine, whilst another says, The whole of England knows your gay, because you walk that way.”
Last night the Met Police confirmed to the Daily Mail that they were assessing the footage: “Police are aware of the video currently circulation on social media. The content is currently being assessed.
“Officers are in the process of contacting relevant parties. No arrests have been made.”
Kick It Out, the footballing body that seeks to tackle racism and discrimination in the football also wade in on the incident, saying they “strongly condemn” it.
“We strongly condemn the homophobic chanting led on stage by a band of Arsenal FC supporters, with a group of the club’s fans joining in, prior to their FA Cup semi-final fixture against Reading FC,” said Roisin Wood, Director of Kick it Out.
“We have informed the Police and Arsenal FC of the footage which has emerged of the incident, and will continue to liaise with both parties on this matter.
“We expect to see a full investigation undertaken by the Police and for appropriate action to be taken”
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