Monday 7 January 2019 17:22, UK
Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has urged fans to bring a complete end to chants of an anti-Semitic nature ahead of their match with Tottenham.
Blues fans have been under the spotlight in recent weeks after a number of high-profile incidents including a derogatory chant about Spurs supporters, featuring alleged anti-Semitic language, at a Europa League match in Hungary last month.
The two teams will meet on Tuesday in the first leg their Carabao Cup semi-final tie at Wembley.
Chelsea have adopted a zero-tolerance policy and officials and supporters from both clubs met last week to discuss stewarding and policing at Wembley.
"I think we need the support of our fans of course. But we would like to have their support for us, not against the opponents," said Sarri.
The Chelsea Supporters' Trust on Sunday posted an article on the group's website reporting the experiences of two Jewish supporters, a mother and son, who discussed hearing anti-Semitic abuse at Stamford Bridge.
The son, known as Jack, said: "It has definitely got worse in recent seasons. It is a bit stupid and short-sighted though, especially as our owner, Roman Abramovich, is Jewish.
"It is ridiculous that it is that aspect, with Tottenham or whoever, that someone would pick on."
Last January Chelsea launched the 'Say No to Anti-Semitism' campaign and in 2010 joined with anti-discrimination group Kick It Out to "try and rid the game of the Y-word".
However, the waters are muddied by the fact Tottenham supporters use the Y-word in large numbers at matches.
Last week the World Jewish Congress and the Board of Deputies of British Jews urged Spurs to take a stand against its use.
Yet the club maintain the term is not meant to cause offence, with a spokesman saying: "We remain wholly committed to ensuring that a zero-tolerance position is adopted in respect of anti-Semitic behaviour."
