Leeds United have called in the police after ‘vile chants’ by Millwall fans during yesterday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash at Elland Road.
Visiting supporters marred their side’s first fourth-round win in six years with sick songs about the fatal stabbings of two Leeds fans in Istanbul in 2000.
Home boss Daniel Farke and Millwall manager Alex Neil both condemned the chants of ‘Where were you in Istanbul?’ and ‘Always look out for Turks carrying knives’, which were heard in the first half.
Leeds said in a statement: ‘We were extremely disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football tragedies from the away section at Elland Road.
‘We know the impact this has on the families of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, along with the whole fanbase of Leeds United.
‘We will work with the police and Millwall Football Club to identify those involved, whilst we will also continue our efforts with the football authorities to help eradicate these chants from the game.’
Millwall responded: ‘The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today's fixture.
‘Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies.
‘It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible.’
Leeds boss Farke added: ‘There is nothing more stupid than this old quote that football’s not about life or death, it’s much more serious. It is a stupid quote and has nothing to do with the values of the whole football world. If someone didn’t reach the standards today, it is important to look into the situation.’
The abhorrent songs soured an otherwise memorable afternoon for Millwall, who inflicted a first home defeat on Championship table toppers Leeds since September and a first loss anywhere in 15 games.