Nottingham Forest 'actively working with police' to identify individuals responsible for homophobic abuse reported during Brighton clash

Nottingham Forest were beaten 3-2 by Brighton in an end-to-end Premier League contest at the City Ground on November 25. The game was overshadowed by reports of homophobic chanting, though, with Forest admitting that a minority of their fans aimed abuse at Brighton players and supporters - as per BBC Sport.

Forest were made aware of the homophobic language being used after the final whistle, and have now released an official statement confirming an investigation is underway involving local police. Luton Town and Leeds United were both punished with fines for homophobic chanting during games against Brighton earlier this year.

Forest's statement in full reads: "Following Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion, we have been made aware of some Homophobic language aimed towards Brighton players and supporters from a minority of our fans. Homophobia, like all other forms of discrimination, has no place in football or society, and anyone engaging in discriminatory behaviour is committing a criminal offence. We are actively working with Nottinghamshire Police to identify the individuals involved, and they will be dealt with appropriately. We would like to thank all our supporters who reported incidents. Nottingham Forest is committed to creating an inclusive environment which embraces and celebrates our differences. We want everyone who attends our stadium to have a positive experience."

Forest will now await the findings of the investigation before any possible sanctions are imposed. Steve Cooper's side are due back in Premier League action at home to Everton on December 2, while Brighton are set to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge a day later.