Tottenham charged over homophobic chants heard in Man United win

Tottenham have been charged with misconduct by the Football Association in relation to homophobic chants by their supporters during a match against Manchester United earlier this season.

Spurs issued a statement condemning the chants at the match at Old Trafford on September 29, which the PA news agency understands were aimed at Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta and United's former Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount.

One of the chants made lewd suggestions about Arteta's sexual habits and another called United’s Mount a ‘Chelsea rent boy’.

The club now face sanction from the national governing body over the matter.

The FA alleges the club failed to ensure their supporters did not use words which were in an 'improper, offensive, abusive, indecent, or insulting way with either an express or implied reference to sexual orientation' in the 49th and 79th minutes of the match, which Tottenham won 3-0.

Spurs have been given until November 13 to respond to the charge. 

Spurs criticised the 'abhorrent' homophobic chanting from sections of the away support in a statement issued on September 29.

'This is simply unacceptable, hugely offensive and no way to show support for the team,' the statement read.

'The club will be working closely with the police and stewards to identify anyone instigating or joining in with the chanting - we shall take the strongest possible action in accordance with our sanctions and banning policy.'

The club's LGBTQI+ supporters' group Proud Lilywhites also said at the time: 'Loved what happened on the pitch at Old Trafford; didn't love the homophobic chanting off the pitch.

'We're all Spurs fans just like you. When you sing these songs you're telling us we don't belong; and we do - as much as you do.'