Chelsea warn fans against anti-semitic taunts with Spurs

LONDON (Reuters) - Chelsea have warned their fans against making anti-semitic taunts during Saturday's Premier League game at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs, whose fan base includes members of north London's Jewish community, played out a 3-3 FA Cup draw at Stamford Bridge last month without incident.

Chelsea issued a warning on their Web site (www.chelseafc.com) on Friday, saying:

"The club has been praised for the huge strides made in tackling racism at Stamford Bridge and we want to ensure that any fans who use anti-Jewish abuse during the game are identified and appropriate action taken."

It added: "Hissing noises, singing songs about 'yids' and other offensive songs about Jewish people are unacceptable.

"Anybody caught chanting or making anti-semitic or racist remarks will be arrested and prosecuted by the police. Chelsea will also ban guilty offenders from Stamford Bridge."

The club are introducing a text message service from the Spurs game onwards for fans to report any anti-social behaviour.

Saturday's early kickoff is a key one for both clubs, with second-placed Chelsea trying to close a six-point gap on leaders Manchester United and Spurs, who are sixth, looking to hold on to a UEFA Cup slot for next season.