Taylor calls for action after attack

PROFESSIONAL Footballers’ Association chief executive Gordon Taylor has called the attack on Jack Grealish “disgraceful” and “cowardly” and believes the authorities must work with the government to help stamp out such incidents.

Aston Villa captain Grealish was punched by a fan during the derby at Birmingham City on Sunday, and Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was also confronted on the pitch at Arsenal.

Those incidents came after a supporter confronted Rangers player James Tavernier during their game against Hibernian at Easter Road on Friday.

After a spate of incidents, Taylor insist the authorities must “put a lid on the problem” quickly and he has called on the Football Association to work with the government, police and stewards at the grounds to help stamp out such behaviour.

n England will play their first competitive home fixture away from Wembley for the first time in nearly 13 years after the Football Association announced the Euro 2020 qualifier against Kosovo will be hosted elsewhere.

The Group A clash is scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, with the new venue to be confirmed by the FA at a later date.

Gareth Southgate’s side start their quest to qualify for Euro 2020 on March 22 at home to the Czech Republic before a trip to Montenegro three days later.

n Ilkay Gundogan admits he is still to make a decision on his Manchester City future.

The German midfielder is out of contract at the Etihad Stadium at the end of next season. City, who face Schalke in the Champions League last-16 second leg tonight, are keen to secure the 28-yearold’s services for longer.