Rio Ferdinand criticises England fans over chants

Rio Ferdinand has criticised fans who sang allegedly racist songs about him and his brother Anton during England's win over San Marino last Tuesday.

The Manchester United defender and his brother, who plays for QPR, were reportedly the subject of a song from visiting supporters saying they be "burned on a bonfire".

Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) have contacted FIFA and the Football Association is awaiting official notification regarding the complaint.

The 34-year-old tweeted: "You expect and accept banter from fans on the terraces as its part of what makes the game great, but racism is not banter, and from ya own fans. WOW.

"Always a small minority who ruin it for others.

"Let's not jump to conclusions + assume though as it might just have been banter. We'll see after the investigation."

It is thought Ferdinand may have been targeted by some England fans angered by his decision to withdraw from Roy Hodgson's squad for the World Cup double-header against San Marino and Montenegro.

Ferdinand declined the opportunity of a first cap since June 2011 in order to follow a pre-planned fitness routine designed to help him manage his long-standing back problems.

The 34-year-old drew criticism from some fans when he then flew out to Doha to appear as a TV pundit for the San Marino match.