EURO QUALIFIERS 2016: Swastika markings a disgrace to Croatia – FA chief

FA president Davor Suker has called for further help from the authorities as the country battle an increasing problem of hooliganism

Executive president of the Croatian FA, Damir Vrbanovi, has described the swastika markings seen on the field during their 1-1 draw with Italy on Friday as a disgrace to the country.

The Euro 2016 qualifier was played behind closed doors due to a sanction for racist chants from sections of the Croatian crowd in a match against Norway in March.

The symbol was clearly visible on the grass as the game kicked off, leaving ground staff at the Stadion Poljud in Split scrambling - unsuccessfully - to cover it up at half-time.

"It is a disgrace to Croatia," fumed Vrbanovi.

"In Milan the match was almost abandoned, now we have to embarrass ourselves again," he added, alluding to the November clash between the same two sides which saw a number of flares thrown from the Croatia end.

"We had been to the pitch in the morning, nothing was visible, we told that to the match official."

Croatia football association (HNS) president Davor Suker also expressed his sadness at the events, admitting he fears further Uefa sanctions.

"I feel bad because it should have been spectacle but it was not," said former Real Madrid striker Suker.

"I feel sorry for the coaches and the players and I request the government do whatever it takes and help football. Now we have to face a disciplinary committee again.

"I hope hooligans will not win, we want someone here to protect football, Croatia and the city of Split."

HNS security officer Zoran Cvrk said he expects at least a financial sanction from Uefa and revealed he was informed of the problem shortly before kick-off.

"We will be heavily fined," he said. "We were informed about the swastika right before the beginning of the match so we tried to do something at half-time."