Aragones faces axe for racism

Spain coach Luis Aragones faces the sack over his racist remarks about Thierry Henry.

The country's football federation have belatedly started disciplinary action against Aragones after he called the Arsenal striker a "black s**t" two months ago.

The remark, which was intended to motivate Jose Reyes during a Spanish training camp, sparked resignation calls at the time, but the 66-year-old refused to quit.

He said then: "I never intended to offend anyone, and for that reason I have a very easy conscience.

"I'm obliged to motivate my players to get the best results and as part of that job, I use colloquial language, with which we can all understand each other within the framework of the football world."

The spanish federation initially appeared to back their coach by refusing to launch an inquiry.

But today the president Angel Maria Villar confirmed the U-turn following political pressure from Spain's anti-violence commission. If found guilty, Aragones could be be sacked, suspended or heavily fined.

Aragones said today: " I expected the news because the president has already told me. Anyway in a case like this you always have the right to defend yourself."

The investigation, which is expected to take between two and three months, will look at whether the remarks breached the federation's rules regarding "conduct contrary to good order in sport".