England get FIFA warning over ‘political’ fan chants and second £50,000 fine for unauthorised socks
Three Lions players breached tournament marketing and equipment rules by wearing protective socks
England have been warned by FIFA over fan behaviour and have also been fined for players wearing unauthorised socks during the World Cup.
The Football Association have received a warning from the world governing body over the behaviour of England fans and alleged “political chants” during the Three Lions’ semi-final defeat to Croatia.
Chants of 'no surrender' were heard during the national anthems, though no details were given of the infringement.
FIFA's disciplinary committee issued the initial charges on Thursday and, having studied footage from the game, have determined a small minority of those in attendance at the Luzhniki Stadium were guilty of misconduct.
"The decision was taken after having analysed the respective evidence available and considered all factors surrounding the infringement, including the fact that the incident was triggered by a very small group of fans," said an official statement.
The FA has also been fined around £50,000 for breaching tournament rules on marketing and equipment - understood to be the use of branded ankle support socks over approved kit.
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Raheem Sterling has also worn protective socks during the World CupIt is the second time England have been penalised for wearing the socks, having also been fined the same amount after the quarter-final.
Raheem Sterling and Eric Dier have been wearing Trusox protective socks – which prevent blisters and improve grip – over their official Nike outfit.
The FIFA statement added: "Two members of the English national team displayed unauthorised commercial branding on playing equipment items during the above-mentioned match. FIFA had previously requested The Football Association to cease the activity that led to the breach and had in fact imposed a sanction on 10 July for the same infringement that had been caused by a higher number of members of the English national team."