Bulgaria coach issues staggering denial over racist chants

The Euro 2020 qualifier had to be stopped twice in the first-half due to racist abuse directed at England players in a 6-0 win for Gareth Southgate's men.

Despite monkey noises aimed at Tyron Mings and Raheem Sterling being clearly heard as well as fans seen making Nazi salutes, Balakov denied personally hearing the abuse.

"I personally did not hear the chanting you are most probably referring to. I saw that the referee stopped the game. But I also have to say the unacceptable behaviour was not only on behalf of the Bulgaria fans but also the England fans who were whistling and shouting during the Bulgaria national anthem and during the second half they used words against our fans which I find unacceptable".