Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed an arrest has been made following reports of tragedy chanting during Manchester United’s 4-3 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Reports of chants referencing the Hillsborough and Heysel stadium disasters marred the FA Cup quarter-final clash, with footage later emerging on social media of what appeared to be further references to the tragic events.
“GMP can confirm that an arrest has been made in connection with tragedy chanting at the Manchester United vs Liverpool fixture this afternoon,” a statement read. “Incidents of tragedy chanting will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly.
“We are all familiar with fans taunting their opponents at football matches, but this is generally done in good humour and without offence. The incidents today crossed the line of what is acceptable, and we will work closely with both clubs to identify anyone responsible for committing offences during the event.”
Man Utd advanced to the FA Cup quarter-final / Michael Regan/GettyImages
The Football Association also threw its support behind the arrests and pledged to work with the relevant authorities to identify and punish those responsible.
“We are aware of the reported tragedy chanting during today’s FA Cup fixture between Manchester United and Liverpool, and we will be liaising with and supporting Greater Manchester Police,” a statement read.
“We strongly condemn any offensive, abusive and discriminatory chants in football stadiums, and we are determined to stamp this behaviour out. It is entirely unacceptable and can have a lasting and damaging impact on people and communities within our game. It must stop, and we support any club and their fans who try to eradicate this from the terraces.”
Three people were arrested in January after accusations of tragedy chanting in December’s Premier League meeting between the two sides, while Merseyside Police have also spoken to fans about the consequences of such actions.
