Chelsea ban 'monkey gesture' fan

Chelsea have announced that a fan arrested on suspicion of racial abuse at Stamford Bridge has been banned from the ground.

Gavin Kirkham, 28, was caught on camera making a 'monkey gesture' seemingly aimed at Danny Welbeck during the club's League Cup fourth-round tie against Manchester United.

Chelsea said in a statement issued over Twitter: "Chelsea FC has banned 28-year-old from Stamford Bridge pending conclusion of police inquiry into possible racially aggravated offence.

"The man banned from the Bridge is not a current season-ticket holder or member. Chelsea is cooperating fully with police investigation."

Kirkham was taken into police custody earlier this week after attending a West London police station by appointment. He is currently on bail pending further inquiries.