Croatia manager Bilic calls for stern action against own 'racist' supporters

London, June 18(ANI): Croatia manager Slaven Bilic has asked authorities to take strict action against their own fans who were caught indulging in racist chants against Italian striker Mario Balotelli during their Group C match.

Bilic slammed Croatian supporters as an embarrassment to the country, and said these types of fans were not wanted in the team.

An investigation was launched after reports of monkey chants aimed at the Manchester City striker when the nation drew 1-1 in Poznan.

"We are not a racist country. We are a tolerant country. That is why we are angry at these supporters. We have to have sanctions to stop them forever," The Telegraph quoted Bilic, as saying.

"It is a big problem around Europe and the world and in the name of Croatia and our team as a parent, a person and a sportsman, who comes from an open minded tolerant state where everyone is welcome, I do not like this type of supporter and neither do my players. I don't want them in the stadium," he added.

A Uefa hearing will determine Croatia's fate on Tuesday, with the governing body threatening a tough line on such serious indiscretions. (ANI)