QPR and Blackpool fans at centre of separate fan misdemeanour probes 

Blackpool fans enjoy the pre-match atmosphere during the Sky Bet League One match between Blackpool and Southend United at Bloomfield Road on March 9, 2019 in Blackpool, United Kingdom
Some Blackpool fans invaded the pitch after Saturday's draw against Southend Credit: Getty Images

QPR and Blackpool fans were at the centre of separate fan misdemeanour probes on Monday night, while football was still reeling from the Jack Grealish and Chris Smalling attacks.

Rangers confirmed they were investigating alleged abuse from supporters towards Stoke winger James McClean during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Loftus Road.  McClean, the Republic of Ireland international, is a regular target of abuse from opposition fans over his refusal to wear a poppy on his shirt in matches played around Remembrance Day.

Meanwhile, the Football Association is reviewing a pitch invasion during Blackpool's home game against Southend. The incident occurred deep into injury time towards the end of Saturday's League One fixture at Bloomfield Road when Southend defender Taylor Moore scored an own goal to bring Blackpool level at 2-2. Blackpool were playing their first home game since controversial owner Owen Oyston was removed from the club's board, with protesting fans ending their boycott and leading to a near sell-out crowd of 15,871.

The Seasiders acknowledged their supporters for their enthusiasm in a statement after the game but warned them such behaviour would not be tolerated for fear of the club being punished.

“We know that you will all maintain that passion for the remainder of the season and fully acknowledge the excitement and emotion of scoring a 96th-minute equaliser on such a memorable day in the history of Blackpool Football Club,” said the statement.

"However, we must implore all supporters to remain in the stands, no matter what the situation. No spectators or unauthorised persons must encroach onto the pitch.

"Having worked so hard to reach this point, it would be such a shame to run the risk of FA sanctions and see the club fined or forced to play matches behind closed doors."

At QPR, a video posted on Twitter appeared to show at least one fan shouting 'where's your ****ing poppy' at McClean as he stood in front of the stand. A statement from Rangers read: The club wholly condemns such abuse and an internal investigation is now under way as we seek to identify those involved. The club will be making no further comment at this time."

"However, we must implore all supporters to remain in the stands, no matter what the situation. No spectators or unauthorised persons must encroach onto the pitch.

"Having worked so hard to reach this point, it would be such a shame to run the risk of FA sanctions and see the club fined or forced to play matches behind closed doors."

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