By GRAEME BRYCE
ROY HODGSON has pleaded with England fans to keep religion and politics out of tomorrow’s Wembley clash with the Republic of Ireland.
The Three Lions boss sent a personal email warning them not to abuse the 10,000 Irish supporters.
Hodgson wrote: “I would ask our supporters to please respect our opponents and welcome them in the right way. Wembley is considered the home of football and we ask those attending to not take part in any chanting — particularly of a religious or political perspective — which could cause offence to our visitors or fellow fans.”
The eyes of the world will be on Wembley — 18 years after the teams’ last meeting was abandoned due to rioting at Lansdowne Road.
Hodgson added: “As we mark 150 years of the FA, we have been reminded of the greats who wore the Three Lions with pride — Billy Wright, Bobby Moore and Bobby Charlton to name but a few.
“All were renowned for their sporting spirit and were rightly respected the world over. Just like our incredible fans.”
The FA fear England fans are in the dock after anti-discrimination body FARE reported the use of an abusive song about Anton and Rio Ferdinand at England’s World Cup qualifier with San Marino in March.
FIFA took no action but the FA know every chant tomorrow will be scrutinised.
And with tensions high in London after the murder of soldier Lee Rigby, it is feared far-right groups might hijack the game to send political messages.
