A section of England fans have come under heavy criticism after footage circulated showing a rendition of a song, banned by the FA, being sung aloud during the clash at St James Park.
The Three Lions took on Bosnia and Herzegovina in a friendly fixture in preparation for the upcoming Euro 2024 campaign in Germany, with Gareth Southgate’s men taking a comfortable 3-0 victory.
But unsavoury scenes accompanied, after videos emerged of fans singing in the concourse at the stadium, wth lyrics referencing England’s conflict with Germany in World War Two.
Fans have been warned, on numerous occasions previously, by the FA that they face bans should they be idenitified singing the song around England matches.
The song in question verbally illustrates England’s airborne warfare with Germany and the act of the RAF ‘shooting’ down German bombers threatening British soil.
Fans have been warned with added impetus by the FA in recent months, given the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament is to be held in Germany in a matter of weeks.
Back in March 2017, the FA imposed bans on a section of the England Supporters Travel Club following ‘unacceptable behaviour’ and the singing of the song during the friendly with Germany in Dortmund.
An FA statement, issued at the time, read: ‘We have been working closely with the relevant authorities to identify a number of individuals, some of whom have already been suspended from the England Supporters Travel Club and will now be pursued by the UK Football Policing Unit and potentially be subject to a Football Banning Order.
‘To date, 34 members have been investigated for their behaviour by The FA, some of whom have now been banned from the membership. Investigations are still ongoing which may result in further sanctions.
‘As you will be aware, The FA has consistently urged fans to follow England in a positive way and we will continue to work hard to try to ensure a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for all supporters.’
Back on the field, it was business as usual for England on Monday night after a convincing 3-0 victory over the visitors.
Southgate’s men put Bosnia and Herzegovina to the sword in dominant fashion, with goals arriving courtesy of Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and captain Harry Kane.
The Three Lions officially begin their Euro 2024 campaign on Sunday June 16, with an opening Group C clash against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.
England then take on Denmark on June 20, before facing Slovenia five days later.
Southgate is set to trim down his 33-man provisional squad ahead of Euro 2024, and condense his training group down to the 26 players who will jet out to the tournament.
England’s official 26-man squad will be formally announced on 8 June 2024, when players will learn whether they have made the grade or will be left behind at home.
It will have been confirmed the day before, ahead of the Uefa deadline of 7 June, but Southgate will not publicly reveal the final group until the following day.
