FA clamp down on the coin throwers

The Football Association today said they were determined to clamp down on fans who throw coins and other missiles.

They vowed to continue their tough approach after launching a series of investigations and charging several clubs for incidents at recent games.

Millwall, Chelsea and West Ham are among those clubs and will have to take responsibility for supporters' actions if the cases against them are proved.

The FA have encouraged clubs to take measures to prevent thugs disrupting games and threatening the safety of players.

But when they believe more can be done, the game's governing body has insisted it will hold the clubs to account.

There are no minimum or maximum penalties in their regulations but fines are the most common sanction if the clubs are found guilty.

A spokesman said: "Missile throwing is absolutely unacceptable and is not only a danger in itself but can lead to other problems.

"It is essential to make it clear that anyone identified to have thrown missiles risks being subjected to a banning order."

Processes for collecting evidence when objects such as coins and lighters are thrown on to pitches have improved in recent years with close circuit TV cameras and improved police observation. The FA have always had disciplinary action open to them but the rash of recent cases suggests they are in a better position to employ it now.

However, clubs have the right to defend themselves and Millwall were given until today to respond to two charges resulting from their Carling Cup tie against Liverpool in October at The Den.

Chairman Theo Paphitis has indicated they will argue they have no case to answer. He has insisted the missiles came from away supporters.

He has also publicly disputed the charge of fans' racist abuse aimed at Liverpool defender Djimi Traore. Millwall are thought to have requested to attend their disciplinary hearing at Soho Square when a date has been set.

Chelsea have also vowed to fight a charge for failing to control their fans against West Ham in the Carling Cup in October.

Mateja Kezman was cut by an object thrown from the stands. West Ham have been charged with the same offence.

The Upton Park club are also under investigation by the FA for coin throwing during their Championship game at Millwall last month.