Ukraine fan probe

UKRAINE are facing sanctions from Fifa after supporters pelted England players with flares during Saturday’s World Cup qualifier, which was also marred by allegations of racist abuse.

England have made an official complaint to the world governing body after around 20 lit fireworks were thrown into their penalty area during the first half. The game had to be stopped briefly on three occasions for the flares – several of which landed close to goalkeepers Robert Green and David James – to be stamped out.

The incidents are certain to be included in referee Damir Skomina’s match report and Fifa could respond by closing the Dnipro Arena could be closed for international fixtures. Fifa could also investigate Carlton Cole’s claim that “a few” England players were racially abused by fans.