FA Investigating Claims Cameron Jerome was Racially Abused by Leeds Defender Giuseppe Bellusci

The Football Association have opened an investigation into claims Norwich City striker Cameron Jerome was racially abused by Leeds United defender Giuseppe Bellusci in Tuesday's (21 October) clash between the two Championship sides.

Jerome, 28, reacted angrily following a confrontation with the Italian defender during the first half of the 1-1 draw at Carrow Road, prompting referee Mark Clattenburg to stop play and bring the issue to the attention of managers Neil Adams and Darko Milanic.

An FA spokesman said: "I can confirm we are investigating this allegation."

"Cameron has alleged that a racist remark was made," Canaries boss Adams said following the game.

"I don't think he would have reacted the way he did if it hadn't happened.

"Mark [Clattenburg] came over to explain to myself and Darko exactly what had happened to put everyone in the picture, which I think was the right thing to do."

Bellusci, one of a host of summer arrivals at Elland Road, who joined from Catania, was warned by the referee. Moments later Norwich forward Jerome was shown a yellow card for a late challenge on the accused Leeds defender.

"He [Clattenburg] spoke to the players and representatives from each club at half time and he'll be taking statements from the players involved," Adams explained.

"Mark will submit a report to the relevant authorities and it will be dealt with from there. He didn't take any action at the time. He merely relayed what Cameron had said. It must now go through the proper channels.

"Yes, Bellusci is the player who has been alleged to have made the remark. My concern was to speak to Cameron at the break to make sure his head was right."

Milanic, who was overseeing just his fifth match in charge of the Yorkshire club, also confirmed his team would be making a statement, but insisted he knew little about the incident.

It's difficult for me to comment because I didn't hear nothing," he said. "The referee was also away from this moment.

"I didn't speak with him after the match. I'm used to not staying in the dressing room after the game.

"I'm sure that somebody will make a statement, yes."