FA apologises after England fans again heard singing anti-IRA songs

England fans sang anti-IRA songs during Tuesday’s friendly in Italy despite efforts from the Football Association to stamp the chants out following last year’s match in Scotland.

England fans caused controversy last November with the chants during the 3-1 victory at Celtic Park.

And, though the FA liaised with fan groups after the Scotland game to try to prevent such chants happening again, they were heard during England’s 1-1 draw at the Juventus Stadium in Turin. During the first half they could also be heard singing derogatory songs about Italy and Italians.

Any repeat during England’s next match, against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on 7 June, would bring yet more criticism.

After the win in Scotland, the FA made it clear it was unhappy, saying in a statement: “We apologise for any offence caused by a section of the England support at the match with Scotland.

"The FA does not condone inappropriate and offensive chanting and intends to meet with supporters’ groups to discuss the wider issues. We have consistently urged supporters to show respect and not to chant songs that could be regarded as insulting to others – particularly from a religious or political perspective.”