Terry Venables has called for Middlesbrough to launch an inquiry into the conduct of midfielder George Boateng.

The Dutchman found himself embroiled in controversy after accusing Nicky Barmby of making racist remarks to him during the 2-2 draw against Leeds.

Barmby - flanked by Leeds' boss Venables - called a news conference yesterday to flatly deny the allegations.

Venables is so incensed he is considering taking the matter up personally with Middlesbrough counterpart Steve McClaren.

Boateng could be facing an FA charge after being caught on camera spitting in the direction of Leeds defender Jonathan Woodgate at the end of the game.

Barmby said he was then assaulted by Boateng in the tunnel on his way to the dressing-room.

Arsenal's Dutch star Dennis Bergkamp is facing tough disciplinary action following his clash with Blackburn Rovers' Nils-Eric Johansson on Saturday.

FA bosses will assess referee Graham Barber's verdict on the stamping row before deciding whether he faces trial by video.

Joe Royle has offered to meet any Ipswich fans upset by his appointment as manager after he signed a two and a half year contract with the club.

The 53-year-old agreed to face his critics in a local radio phone-in after protesters demonstrated against his appointment during the defeat to Gillingham on Saturday.

Celtic's Robert Douglas and Stilian Petrov gave Martin O'Neill a double tonic yesterday when they declared themselves fit and healthy for Thursday's UEFA Cup first leg clash with Blackburn.