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FA order probe into alleged racist abuse at Chesterfield v Port Vale

Image: Vale Park: Investigation into incidents during Chesterfield clash

The FA has asked Chesterfield to launch an investigation into alleged racist abuse aimed at their players at Port Vale on Saturday.

The Sky Bet League 1 fixture was marred by a confrontation between Chesterfield defender Daniel Jones, a former Vale player, and supporters following Chesterfield's 2-1 victory.

It is alleged Chesterfield's black players were the subject of racist taunts from a small section of fans as the players left the pitch after the final whistle.

Chesterfield chief executive Chris Turner said in a statement on his club's website: "Any form of racism cannot be tolerated.

"We have been asked by the FA to launch a full investigation, which will involve speaking to our players.

"I spoke to Port Vale chairman Norman Smurthwaite after the match and he said they would hold their own investigation.

"We will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is taking place."

Vale also conducted an investigation at the start of last season when it was alleged racist chanting took place during a home game against Bradford, and they confirmed their stance against racism in a club statement.

The statement read: "Port Vale Football Club is bitterly disappointed to receive a number of complaints of alleged racist chanting from a number of individuals in the Lorne Street Stand towards a visiting Chesterfield player on Saturday.

"The club has received numerous complaints, all from Port Vale fans, and The Football League is now investigating this incident. Kick It Out, football’s national anti-discrimination body, is liaising with the Club to offer its support and guidance.

"Port Vale does not tolerate mindless behavior of this kind and any supporter who is found to be partaking in abusive or discriminatory behavior of a racist nature faces a life ban from Vale Park, as well as the possibility of criminal proceedings.

"Over the weekend, the club has been studying photographs and CCTV footage of the alleged incident and will be implementing further security measures for coming games so that anyone committing an offence of this nature will be dealt with quickly and effectively. 

"It is important to reiterate that this incident involved only a few individuals and their behavior should not be allowed to impact on the good name of the overwhelming majority of Port Vale fans who attend games without incident. 

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