Three Arsenal fans banned for tragedy-related abuse

Arsenal have welcomed three-year banning orders against three of their supporters after they pleaded guilty to abuse linked to the tragedy during an FA Cup match against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on January 7.

“We strongly condemn this abhorrent behavior,” Arsenal said in a statement on Thursday. “We have worked closely with the police to ensure swift action is taken and we welcome the football banning orders issued.”

Liverpool have repeatedly called for an end to chants over the Hillsborough tragedy during the 1989 FA Cup semi-final, which cost the lives of 97 Liverpool fans after a crush in a crowded, fenced-off enclosure.

A Manchester United fan was charged by Greater Manchester Police on Wednesday with abuse linked to the tragedy towards Liverpool supporters during last weekend's FA Cup quarter-final between the teams.