Sheffield Wednesday: Mansfield Town make racial-abuse complaint after Owls bust-up

The Football Association were already investigating unsavoury scenes after the final whistle of the Owls' 2-1 pre-season defeat gainst the Stags at the One Call Stadium last Tuesday when fists were thrown as players from both sides confronted each other in a mass melee.

Another probe has been launched now that Mansfield have made an official complaint.

A statement on the Stags website said: "Mansfield Town can confirm that after its pre-season friendly against Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday 24 July, the club has reported an allegation of racist abuse directed at its captain, Krystian Pearce, to both The Football Association and Nottinghamshire Police.

"The club has liaised with 'Kick It Out' and will not be making any further comment until the investigations are concluded."

An FA spokesman said: "The FA can confirm that the match referee was made aware of an allegation during the Mansfield Town v Sheffield Wednesday game on Tuesday 24 July and subsequently reported this to The FA, which has begun making enquiries into the matter."

The Owls were quick to respond, issuing the following statement:

"Sheffield Wednesday are aware of the very serious allegations made following the pre-season friendly with Mansfield Town on Tuesday 24 July.

"The club vehemently refutes any form of racist abuse on our part and will vigorously defend itself should the need arise.

"SWFC will make no further comment at this time."