Luton has initiated an internal inquiry into the chanting at Kenilworth Road, and the FA has asked for observations.
In response to claims of “tragedy chanting” that disrupted the match against Liverpool, the Football Association (FA) said they are requesting “observations” from Luton and more information from the police.
During Sunday’s Premier League encounter at Kenilworth Road, certain elements of the home crowd were audibly chanting offensive things.
The FA has now publicly denounced the conduct and promised to keep addressing the problem of tragic chanting in English football. According to sources, Liverpool has also written to Luton to inquire about their plans for responding.
“We are aware of tragedy chanting during the fixture between Luton Town and Liverpool,” the Football Association stated in a statement on Monday.
“We are aware of tragedy chanting during the fixture between Luton Town and Liverpool,” the Football Association stated in a statement on Monday.
“We are looking for more information from the Police as well as views from Luton Town.
“We strongly condemn chanting of this nature and will continue to work closely with our stakeholders across the game, including the clubs, leagues, fan groups, and the relevant authorities to proactively address the issue.”
After the 1-1 draw against Luton, when Luis Diaz’s late stoppage-time goal negated Tahith Chong’s opening goal in the 80th minute, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp revealed he had not heard the chants personally but added: “Shame on everyone who said it.”
Following the match, Rob Edwards, Luton’s opponent, remarked, “I’ll find out what was said.” I am unable to comment as I have not heard anything.
“Right now, I don’t want to say the incorrect thing. We don’t and I don’t support it.
Following up with a lengthy statement on Monday night, Luton said they were “extremely disappointed that a small number of supporters soured the occasion with chants that may be interpreted as being in relation to tragedies that have affected Liverpool FC in the past” and that they were “saddened” by the reports of inappropriate chanting.
The Hatters went on to say that their “safety and security team launched an internal investigation at the earliest opportunity” and that they “condemn any kind of chanting that knowingly seeks to divide”.
In addition, Luton issued a statement expressing their “wholehearted apologies” to anyone who was hurt by the yelling and cautioned that anyone incited may be barred from stadiums and perhaps face criminal charges.
“Luton Town Football Club is saddened by reports of inappropriate chanting towards Liverpool fans during yesterday’s Premier League fixture at Kenilworth Road,” the complete statement from Luton stated.
“For the most part, the game was played in an electrifying environment within the stadium, and Rob Edwards’ team almost achieved one of the season’s best finishes.
“While we do not wish to dampen the atmosphere at our home ground in any way, we are extremely disappointed that a small number of supporters soured the occasion with chants that may be interpreted as being in relation to tragedies that have affected Liverpool FC in the past.
“The Club condemns any kind of chanting that knowingly seeks to divide, and our safety and security team launched an internal investigation at the earliest opportunity.
“What has quickly become evident is that a number of people may have taken part without knowledge that the words used were in relation to the Hillsborough and Heysel tragedies, and we see the route to persuading supporters not to repeat these chants in future is through communication and education.
“In light of this, we are looking into CCTV and media video from the game and want to talk to witnesses to find out who could have participated. Any of the offenders risk having their stadiums banned and even facing criminal charges.
The inquiry needs information, so if you have any, please email myvoice@lutontown.co.uk with the subject line “Inappropriate Chanting.”
“We have to remind our supporters that you are all ambassadors of the Club and it is your duty to act in accordance with the regulations of the ground. The world is watching us in the Premier League, something we are all rapidly becoming used to. This includes being aware of the songs that, in accordance with the Love Football, Protect The Game campaign, cannot be sung.
“On behalf of all at Luton Town, we would like to wholeheartedly apologise to anyone offended by the chants heard during yesterday’s match, and will continue to work with supporter groups to educate fans on chants that are classed as tragedy abuse by football authorities, the police and CPS.”
A statement issued by the Premier League stated, “The Premier League condemns the tragedy-related chanting heard at yesterday’s match between Luton Town and Liverpool.” The league also denounced the shouts.We are dedicated to giving this top attention and will always see it as an unacceptable problem. A club suspension is obligatory for anyone found guilty of abuse linked to tragedies, and they will be reported to the authorities.”
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