North London derby: Arsenal and Tottenham issue plea for fans to behave

Arsenal and Tottenham have issued a public plea for fans to behave in tomorrow’s north London derby.

The game will be under particular scrutiny following the furore over Tottenham supporters’ use of ‘yid army’.  The Society of Black Lawyers described the north London club’s attitude as being ‘40 years out of date’, and said that if such chants continue they would ask the police to bring a prosecution for racism.

Last year things boiled over at White Hart Lane when some Arsenal fans directed abuse at Emmanuel Adebayor while a section of the Tottenham support also chanted offensive songs at Arsene Wenger.

Both clubs have warned that any anti-social behaviour from either set of supporters in tomorrow's lunch-time fixture at the Emirates Stadium will not be ignored.

A statement published on the Arsenal and Spurs websites read: “Both clubs are actively encouraging all fans to focus on getting behind their team and enjoying what promises to be a great match on Saturday.

”A north London derby is always a special occasion and we hope Saturday's match will be remembered for both the action on the pitch, as well as the positive support for both teams off it.

“All fans should be aware that breaches of stadium regulations - including anti-social behaviour - will not be tolerated.

”Arsenal and Tottenham do not tolerate discrimination of any sort, whether it be on the pitch or in the stands.

“If you experience any form of discrimination during a matchday at Emirates Stadium, please use our text service to report the incident, locate the block and, if you are able, the row and seat details. Text 67777 or contact a matchday steward.

”Both clubs are actively encouraging all fans to focus on getting behind their team and enjoying what promises to be a great match on Saturday.“

Tottenham have also warned their fans that any offensive banners will be confiscated upon entry to the stadium.

”Flags and banners will be allowed with the appropriate wording and these will be checked before entry by Police/Stewards,“ their statement continued.

”It is common policy and normal ground rules at football stadia in the UK and elsewhere in Europe that flags of an overtly religious/sectarian/political nature will not be permitted and may be confiscated - please respect this request.“