British police arrest Campbell abuse suspect

Police arrested a suspect on Wednesday who allegedly directed racist and homophobic abuse at Portsmouth's Sol Campbell.

The arrest came after Hampshire Police released pictures of 16 suspects who are believed to have shouted the abuse at Campbell, a former Tottenham Hotspur player, during Portsmouth's 2-0 Premier League win over Spurs at Fratton Park on September 28.

A 28-year-old man who lives near to Portsmouth, is being questioned on suspicion of indecent or racial chanting at a football match after attending a Portsmouth police station.

The 16 suspects were caught on camera by a police officer on duty at Portsmouth's Fratton Park home ground on the day of the match and Superintendent Neil Sherrington said: “As part of our investigation into indecent chanting at Fratton Park, we have identified sixteen people we would like to speak to.

“Our inquiry is aimed at identifying and putting before the court those individuals who engaged in unacceptable behaviour at this public event.

“Their abuse caused distress to some supporters and was targeted at an individual.

“We want to send a clear message that abuse of this kind will not be tolerated and that we are taking robust action.”

Portsmouth spokesman Gary Double added: “There is no place for it (the abuse) in football. That is the view of most people in the game and most fans.

“The police involvement in this matter can have a positive effect.

“Sol is co-operating with the police investigations and has given them his views on it.”

Tottenham's safety officer, Sue Tilling, said: “The club does not tolerate any form of abusive or discriminatory chanting and we would ask fans with any information to please come forward and assist the police with their investigation into this matter.

“In order to ensure that matchdays are enjoyable for everyone we shall not hesitate to ban, indefinitely, supporters whose behaviour is proven to be unacceptable.”

Campbell has been the target of persistent abuse from some Spurs fans ever since he left White Hart Lane in 2001 to join arch north London rivals Arsenal.