UNITED MAKE FORMAL RACISM COMPLAINT

Last updated : 08 October 2006 By Ed

The Observer:

Louis Saha and Patrice Evra endured monkey chants and other racist abuse by Benfica fans before Manchester United's Champions League victory in Lisbon last month.

The France forward and Senegal defender were targeted by a group of home fans during the warm-up for the game on 26 September, that United won 1-0 with a Saha goal. Several of their United team-mates involved in the warm-up, such as Darren Fletcher, heard the taunts

United lodged an official complaint with Uefa, who confirmed yesterday they are looking into the club's claims.

If United's complaints are proved, Benfica will face sanctions. Uefa and Fifa have both pledged to impose heavy penalties on clubs whose fans behave in a racist manner.

And a statement from UEFA:

"UEFA is investigating a written complaint made by Manchester United FC about alleged racist conduct by spectators at the UEFA Champions League Group F match against SL Benfica in Lisbon on 26 September. The English club has submitted the complaint, following allegations by United players that they were subject to abuse of a racist nature at the game in Portugal, which United won 1-0."