An Albion fan has been labelled a “disgrace” after a picture posted on social media appears to show him mocking two murdered Leeds United fans.

The young fan posed for a photograph wearing the shirt of Turkish side Galatasaray, with his face concealed by an Albion scarf and carrying a pair of scissors.

It was posted on Twitter on the same day Albion faced Leeds United.

Two fans from the Yorkshire club were stabbed and killed when they played the Turkish team in the UEFA Cup semi-finals in April 2000.

The picture was shared by outraged Albion and Leeds fans as well as Leeds United fan magazine The Square Ball.

Albion goalkeeper David Stockdale also spoke out, describing it as a “disgrace”.

The fan received threats and, following the backlash, he apologised and closed his Twitter account.

Peter Hill, 50, a lifelong Albion fan from Newhaven, said: “I was shocked, especially when I saw the scissors as I immediately knew what it meant.

“We have a bit of a laugh with the away supporters and some friendly banter but seeing a fellow Brighton supporter putting that up – he is mocking two chaps who died.”

Sussex Police said that while it was not a crime, they would be meeting the fan and his parents.

Les Parnum, from Ditchling, who has supported Albion since 1954, said this type of incident should be “stamped out”.

The 67-year-old said: “Football fans are normally some of the best, you won’t find anywhere quieter than during a minute’s silence at a football match, but like in any sport or walk of life you get the oddbods who are trying to make a name for themselves.”

Bill Arnold, 63, who travels to Albion games from his home in Bradford, said: “He is not even a proper fan when you just antagonise people. You do silly things when you are at that age but you don’t do stuff like that that.”

PC Darren Balkham, Sussex Police football liaison officer, said: “This matter was brought to our attention by Leeds United fans and we were able to quickly identify the boy who posted the tweets.

“I have spoken to his mother and will be meeting with him and his parents in the next couple of weeks.

“While no criminal offence has occurred, this was a particularly stupid thing to do and he has already recognised this.

“We have been fully engaged with Albion over the matter, which has been resolved to their satisfaction and I have informed the Leeds fans who are happy with the action that has been taken.”