Beckham's blade boots could be banned

Football boots like those worn by David Beckham could be banned.

The Football Association is to investigate the new blade-style grips after a player had his leg sliced open.

If the FA examination reveals the blades are dangerous, they could be banned.

Beckham sparked the blade craze when he started wearing Adidas Predator boots with the new-style grips.

Many boots worn by teenage park players now feature blades instead of studs, it is reported.

The safety scare was sparked when Gillingham player-manager Andy Hessenthaler had his leg sliced open by a player wearing the blades.

John Reardon, of West Riding County Football Association, said he was not aware of any serious injuries caused by the blades. He said: "If it is proven that there is a design fault then it will be between the FA and the manufacturers and any decision as to whether they are banned will be up to them."