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Chelsea were pleading with their fans yesterday to keep the atmosphere at Wembley “positive” with worries that there could be anti-semitic chanting at the League Cup final.
With Tottenham’s links to London’s Jewish community and Blues fans in the past chanting anti-semitic songs — something the club have admitted — the Blues are reminding fans of the responsibility they have to the club.
Anti-semitic chants were filmed after Spurs’ 2-2 draw with West Ham last weekend and Chelsea are keen to avoid a repeat with their fans, threatening severe action to anyone caught taking part in discriminatory chanting.
“Sunday’s Capital One Cup final against Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley promises to be a passionate and exciting match with both sets of supporters contributing to an excellent occasion,” a statement on the Blues’ official website read.
“After consultation between the Metropolitan Police and both clubs, we would like to remind supporters of their responsibilities on the day.
“For a small minority, this game has historically brought a deeply unpleasant and unwanted level of anti-semitic abuse, which has no place in football or anywhere in society. As such, we urge everyone to keep their support positive.
“Opposition supporters using terms as a form of identity is no excuse for abusive chanting or behaviour. The club asks that all supporters realise such actions cause huge offence to those around them.
“If we receive evidence that supporters have engaged in anti-semitic or any other form of discriminatory chanting or behaviour, we will take the strongest possible action, including supporting criminal prosecution.
The west London club has been in the spotlight this past few weeks after fans were caught in France shoving a black man off a train before bragging about being racist.
The club have barred five fans from attending Stamford Bridge following the incident on the Paris Metro.
“Recent events in Paris have seen Chelsea fans united in their contempt for a mindless few.” the statement continued.
“Chelsea is proud of the diversity within our club and our vision embraces equality regardless of race, gender, sexuality, disability or religion. We all share the common cause of supporting our team.”
