Teenager in court after 'vile' Sir Bobby Charlton chanting

"Inflammatory comments" made when Sir Bobby Charlton died could have led to "a lot of trouble", the judge said

A teenager has appeared in court after "vile" chanting at a Manchester City game over the death of Sir Bobby Charlton.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, made a "partial admission" to a public order offence to police officers, the court heard.

The youth could avoid a criminal record if he accepts a caution by police.

District Judge Joanne Hirst was told he had never been in trouble before and lives with his parents in Tameside.

At a brief five-minute hearing at Manchester Magistrates' Youth Court, he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth as he stood before the bench, with his arms behind his back.

He was accompanied by his mother.

District Judge Hurst told the boy: "You made some inflammatory comments on the day that Sir Bobby Charlton died that could have led to quite a lot of trouble.

"I'm encouraged if the police think a caution appropriate, it is always better if a young person can begin adult life without a conviction.

"It will be up to the police whether they administer a caution, it is up to you to fully admit so that the caution can be given.

"That will be the end of the matter."

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He was ordered not to attend any football matches before he meets police again to receive his caution.

Police launched an investigation following hateful chanting at City's home game on 21 October about the death of Manchester United and England great Sir Bobby Charlton.

City manager Pep Guardiola criticised the chanting, with the club also denouncing it as "vile".