FA to start homophobic abuse probe

SENT OFF Yann Sango’o

FA CHIEFS are set to launch an investigation after claims of homophobic abuse during the League Two match between Morecambe and Tranmere on Saturday.

And they could impose a 12-game ban after a player was allegedly heard using the word “f **** t”.

The FA have confirmed they are aware of video footage showing Morecambe midfielder Yann Sango’o being sent off during Tranmere’s 1-0 win and are waiting on referee Paul Howard’s report about the alleged incident.

Howard gave Sango’o a red card in the first half after a melee broke out following a challenge on a Tranmere player. The dismissal came almost immediately after the remark is heard, but it is not clear from the footage who said it.

The FA will study the report before deciding on further action, if any.

Tranmere’s Jay Spearing and Michael Vaughan appear to be horrified by the remark. The EFL said it was now an FA matter.

In a statement yesterday Tranmere said they “have a policy of not commenting publicly on specific disciplinary issues relating to other clubs or their players and therefore will not be making any statement regarding yesterday’s incident.

“We reiterate our firm belief that there is no place for homophobia within football.”

FA bosses brought in a new range of punishments in August for “aggravated breaches” in a determined crackdown on racism, homophobia and other forms of abuse.

Under the revised guidelines, the “standard minimum” sanction to be imposed is six games, but can be up to 12.

Morecambe were approached for comment but have not responded.