Everton is investigating reports of homophobic chanting during an English Premier League game against Chelsea.
The abuse is alleged to have been directed at visiting Blues fans during Everton's 3-1 win at Goodison Park.
"Everton is working in conjunction with 'Kick It Out' and has commenced an investigation into homophobic chanting reported during Saturday's Premier League game against Chelsea," a club statement said.
"Both the club and Kick It Out have received reports of a homophobic chant being aimed at Chelsea's fans by a small section of the home crowd.
"Homophobia has no place within our stadium, our club, our community or our game.
"The club strongly condemns such behaviour and is carrying out a thorough investigation, which will include liaison with Merseyside Police."
The alleged abuse came during a week in which the Premier League has backed a 'Rainbow Laces' campaign to support gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender people in sport.
Meanwhile, former Liverpool and Rangers midfielder Graeme Souness believes more must be done to stamp out homophobia in the game, before any active gay players feel comfortable about coming out.
The 66-year-old ex-England international said he was from a generation that had been "extremely homophobic", but added that he had found a visit to the Pride Festival in Brighton last year enlightening.
Souness said there was still much work to be done.
"I think the PFA and Premier League have to look at themselves," he said on Sky Sports.
"You ask the question 'why has no one ever come out?' I don't think football has created an environment where anyone would feel comfortable and confident about saying 'I am gay'.
"There must be gay and bisexual players playing in the Premier League - there has to be - but no-one has felt comfortable enough to come out and say 'this is me'."
Meanwhile, on Monday, another EPL club - Brighton and Hove Albion - announced that two visiting supporters were arrested on suspicion of homophobic abuse during Sunday's match with Wolverhampton at the Amex Stadium.
Two men, aged 46 and 48, were ejected from the away section during the 2-2 draw and later arrested by local Sussex Police outside the ground. They have since been released, pending investigation.
Wolves have confirmed they will support Sussex Police's investigation into the incident and say they strongly condemn any form of discrimination.
PA
