FA seek explanation from Norris

Ipswich have fined midfielder David Norris after his controversial goal celebration on Saturday.

Norris appeared to make a 'handcuff' gesture in support of his former Plymouth team-mate Luke McCormick after scoring for Ipswich at Blackpool.

McCormick is serving seven years and four months for causing the deaths of Arron Peak, 10, and his brother Ben, eight, in a car accident when he was under the influence of alcohol earlier this summer on his way home from Norris' wedding. Norris insisted the gesture was not intended to condone or support the actions of McCormick but has been warned about his future conduct.

A statement from Ipswich read: "David deeply regrets that his actions have been wrongly interpreted and has written a personal and private letter of regret to Mr and Mrs Peak.

"In hearing the player's explanation, the club also regrets the potential for misinterpretation of the gesture and would like to make a donation to an appropriate charity, equal to the fine imposed on the player."

The Football Association earlier confirmed they have written to Norris to ask him to explain his actions and he could face further sanctions.

An FA spokesman said: "We are aware of the incident and have written to Ipswich to seek an explanation from David Norris for his actions and await his response."

Norris told the Daily Mirror: "It wasn't a handcuff sign, it was a private message but I can see why people have seen it like that. I apologise if anyone was offended by it.

"Luke is a friend who made a massive mistake and he is paying for that."

Mrs Peak, from Partington, Manchester, told the Mirror the show of solidarity was an "insult" to her sons' memory. "I'm disgusted. To celebrate a goal like that is disrespectful to me and my husband and my boys. He should be given a ban by his club," she said.