FA investigating homophobic chanting during Man Utd's FA Cup draw with Everton

The Football Association (FA) is investigating alleged homophobic chanting during the FA Cup tie between Manchester United and Everton.

United won Friday's game 3-1 at Old Trafford to reach the fourth round at the expense of their Premier League side.

A section of home fans were heard using homophobic language, with the chant believed to be aimed at Everton manager Frank Lampard.

The FA issued a statement after the match confirming that they were looking into the matter.

"We continue to work closely with the Crown Prosecution Service, as well as the UK Football Policing Unit, regarding the use of this term," the statement read.

"Part of our work in this area has included providing the relevant authorities with impact statements from LGBTQ+ supporters, detailing how chanting of this nature affects their experience and sense of inclusion at football matches, so that a clearer position and understanding on the chant can be established.

"We strongly oppose all forms of discrimination and strive to ensure that our game is a safe environment for all, which genuinely embraces diversity and challenges hateful behavior on and off the pitch."

Conor Coady advanced for Everton after Antony's early strike but the defender then put in his own net before Marcus Rashford's late advance for United.

In a widely circulated statement on Friday, United also condemned their supporters' chanting.

“Homophobia, like all forms of discrimination, has no place in football,” the statement read. "Manchester United are proud of their diverse fanbase and the work we have done to reduce cases as we sadly heard today.

"We will continue to campaign for inclusivity and fight discriminatory abuse, whether in stadiums or online. This includes working with fan groups to educate fans about the offense caused by discriminatory language."

The incident comes less than a week after Nottingham Forest launched an investigation into allegations of homophobic chanting directed at Chelsea fans during a 1-1 draw.