International update: Heskey subject to racist chanting

Last updated : 11 September 2008 By Paul Farrington
Emile Heskey, and other members of the England squad were subjected to monkey chants during the game as Croatian "supporters" vented their frustration. In particular it was clear when Emile Heskey got booked.

A spokesman for The FA said: "We can confirm that we will be making a report to Fifa about the racist chanting aimed at Emile Heskey by some Croatia fans during the World Cup qualifying game in Zagreb.

"It is unacceptable for anyone to be subjected to racial abuse and we will be asking FIFA to investigate this. The FA and England team are determined to do all they can to eradicate any form of racism from football and society."

However, that is to take the gloss off what was a fantastic performance from Emile who led the line superbly and linked up the play, offering an extra dimensino to the England team.

The match certainly brought back memories off the 5-1 victory over Germany in Munich.

Other Wigan players in international action, included Kevin Kilbane who notched up a record 50 consecutive caps for teh Republic of Ireland.

Kilbane who played in a face mask to protect his broken cheeckbone is set to overtake Steve Staunton's record of 102 caps before his international career ends.

Speaking about the prosect of missing the games through injury, and playing in a face mask, Killer said: "The milestone wasn't really a factor. I just wanted to play in the game.

"Not being fit and available to play would have been a massive disappointment to me. I'd have just been sat at home. I probably wouldn't have even watched, I'd have been so fed up.

"I've been very lucky because I've been able to play in a couple of positions over the campaigns.

"At times I've just been able to fill in and that's been pretty much it. Sometimes I probably wouldn't have played if injuries hadn't affected the different positions.

"I suppose I've just been there and been able to take every opportunity that has arisen."


It was not so good news for Paul Scharner who's Austrain side were defeated 2-0 by Lithuania, the result came just days after the Austrian's suprising 3-1 victory over France.

Whilst Maynor Figueroa and Wilson Palacios played for Honduras who beat Jamaica 2-0 in San Pedro Sula. They are now second of the Concacaf Group B with six points, currently behind Mexico as the race to qualify for the World Cup gathers pace.