ARSENAL are investigating two incidents of homophobic abuse during a match against Albion – just days after a fellow fan was handed a banning order.

The club confirmed they had been made aware of the abuse during Brighton and Hove Albion’s 2-1 win at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, April 9.

Two Arsenal supporters were ejected from the stadium as a result, and stewarding was “stepped up” in the area where the abuse was reported.

“The incidents that were reported are now being investigated by the club, and we will take the strongest action possible against perpetrators who can be identified,” a club spokesman said.

“Arsenal should be a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, and we want to be clear that any kind of discriminatory abuse is not welcome at our club.

“We’d also like to remind supporters that homophobic abuse is a hate crime and punishable by the law. Please think before you chant.”

The Argus: Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka during Albion's 2-1 win against Arsenal Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka during Albion's 2-1 win against Arsenal

The club also thanked the supporters who came forward to report the incidents on Saturday.

“We can only address this kind of abuse with the help of our fans as allies,” the spokesman continued.

“Discriminatory abuse in the stadium can be reported by texting ‘FOUL’ and the perpetrator’s block, row and seat number, and a brief description of the offence to 67777.

“Football has the power to unite people of all backgrounds, and we don’t want anyone to feel like it’s not for them.

“We are committed to using the power of our voice and reach to make it absolutely clear: Arsenal is for everyone.”

Last week, Arsenal fan Luke Reece was handed a banning order for shouting homophobic abuse at an Albion match on October 2, 2021.

The 21-year-old was overheard directing abuse at nearby Brighton fans by a member of club staff at the Amex stadium.

After realising he had been spotted, he attempted to leave the ground, but was stopped by staff and subsequently arrested by police.

Following a trial at Brighton Magistrates’ Court, Reece was convicted of indecent chanting at a designated football match and handed a three-year football banning order.