Sports

Cardiff City demand apology from Reading after fans' arrests


Highlights: Reading 1-1 Cardiff City

Cardiff City want an apology from Reading after events that led to four Bluebirds fans being arrested by Thames Valley Police during their 1-1 FA Cup draw at Madejski Stadium on Saturday.

The force said the four were arrested for “alleged racially aggravated abuse” and later released under investigation.

Cardiff dispute those allegations.

They said: “Language could be heard taking place between fans of both clubs and was of an anti-Welsh/anti-English nature”.

The statement added: “We are extremely disappointed that Reading Football Club chose to label the behaviour as racist and homophobic.

“We also question their protocol and procedure on the day and welcome a full investigation into its use for the benefit of both our clubs and indeed British football.”

Fans’ chants led to a public address warning to Cardiff fans during the match.

Cardiff chief executive Ken Choo said in the statement on Monday: “The announcement made at Reading this weekend was both damaging and hurtful and we would welcome a public apology from them to our supporters.”

He added: “Our football club prides itself on its respect of all people, irrespective of their background, beliefs or orientation.

“Cardiff is a diverse and welcoming, modern multicultural city and our supporters’ actions reflect that at our games.

“We have a zero tolerance approach towards racist or homophobic behaviour and our supporters’ conduct consistently reflects that.”

Choo is confident that after police conclude their investigation, “the reputation of our club and fans will be fully and unequivocally restored”.

In their statement,