Tottenham Hotspur say only ‘a total clampdown on unacceptable anti-Semitism’ would make them reassess club standards on their fans chanting a term for Jewish people.
The statement follows reported comments from Chelsea chairman, Bruce Buck, who claimed ‘the use of the Y-word by Spurs supporters or by anybody is wrong’.
Spurs will make the short trip west to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night in the Premier League, raising concerns from some sectors of the Jewish community.
The north London side have traditionally garnered the support of a large Jewish fanbase, with some supporters historically claiming to be part of the ‘Y** Army’.
And fans of rival clubs, including Chelsea, have used the term against Spurs in a series of derogatory chants.
A Tottenham spokesperson said: “We have always been clear that our fans (both Jewish and gentile) have never used the term with any offence.
“A re-assessment of its use can only occur effectively within the context of a total clampdown on unacceptable anti-Semitism.”
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) insisted last month the ‘Y’ word has “anti-Semitic connotations”, citing Chelsea as a club that has taken steps to stop fans from using similar terms.
Chelsea fans were reminded in a statement on New Year’s Day fans that racism of any kind is ‘unacceptable’ and ‘unwelcome’ following allegations of anti-Semitic chanting during their Premier League 1-0 win at Crystal Palace.