The FA have condemned the actions of an England fan who took a flag to Italy which included a ‘deeply offensive’ message to the late Diego Maradona.
England began their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign in Naples on Thursday night against the side that .
As is often the case ahead of England away games, there were concerns over trouble involving fans ahead of the match.
The FA have condemned one supporter who took an England flag to Naples that included the words ‘Diego’s in a box’ – in reference to Argentina and Napoli legend Maradona, who died in November 2020.
‘We strongly condemn the actions of the individual who travelled to Naples with a flag that had a highly offensive message on it,’ a statement read.
‘We immediately took steps to have their tickets cancelled before the match. The matter will be reviewed further when we return to England.’
The unnamed supporter is believed to be a member of the official England supporters club.
England’s trip to Italy was their first match since they were .
Speaking ahead of the Euro 2024 qualifier, Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate urged fans to be ‘good tourists’ and ‘respect the local culture’.
‘I think everybody is looking forward to the experience of coming to Naples,’ the former England defender said.
‘Personally, I am exciting about playing in a city that loves football, with a great history. To come here when I can just about remember Maradona when they won the league, and Careca, so I’m excited about that from the football side.
‘We always ask our fans to be good tourists and respect the local culture. We hope the game and the next couple of days passes with no problems.’
Italy boss Roberto Mancini, meanwhile, said he was ‘hoping’ for a peaceful evening off the pitch ahead of the visit of England.
‘I don’t work for the police force to be honest,’ he said. ‘But it’s always been the away fans that have come here and cause problems typically.
‘We saw that in the Champions League. If people come here and behave correctly I don’t think there will be too many issues on that score.
‘We hope nothing comes to pass because football should be a celebration for everyone.’
, .
,  and .
