'Racism and violence has to stop,' says captain

David Beckham yesterday appeared on television to warn England fans that their xenophobic, violent behaviour could get England ejected from the European Championship.

In an address used on news programmes, the England captain, who is unavailable for the next two games due to injury and suspension, said: "Ninety per cent of fans are absolutely amazing, it is the other 10 per cent who need to stay in control.

"It is getting us into lot of trouble. We have been warned and the last thing we want is to face elimination. As players we are working hard to reach the finals.

"Racism, violence and jumping on the pitch has to be put out of our game. Children are getting scared and we don't want families getting hurt.

"Respect has to be shown to the national anthem. Booing a national anthem before the game is disrespectful and shouldn't happen."