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England fans allegedly heard singing anti-IRA chants during 1-1 draw with Italy

The England players salute the fans at the end of the international friendly against Italy
Image: The England players salute the fans at the end of the international friendly against Italy

England fans were reportedly heard singing anti-IRA chants during the 1-1 draw with Italy in Turin, sparking fears of a repeat at their next match in Dublin this summer.

The Football Association attempted to stamp out such chants following incidents last November when travelling supporters were heard singing "F*** the IRA" during England's 3-1 victory over Scotland at Celtic Park.

Of most concern is England’s next fixture when they are scheduled to play a friendly against the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, June 7.

After the game in Scotland, an FA spokesman said steps would be taken to liaise with fan groups and eliminate the chants.

"We apologise for any offence caused by a section of the England support at the match with Scotland,” an FA spokesman said following the match.

"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."

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When contacted by Sky Sports News HQ, a FIFA spokesperson said: "FIFA will analyse the information at its disposal. We cannot comment further at this stage."

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