FANS who shouted racist chants towards Reading FC goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi are set to face hefty punishment from the club, the Chronicle understands.

Reports surfaced on social media that Al-Habsi was subject to racial abuse by a small minority of Royals fans during their 2-0 defeat away at Arsenal on Tuesday night.

The Royals stopper, who hails from Oman, has been in inspired form for Reading FC this season, including a sensational save on Tuesday night to deny French international Olivier Giroud.

The allegations follow a BBC report that eight per cent of fans would stop following their team if they discovered it had a gay player, and The Football Association chairman Greg Clarke said he would not recommend a player coming out as they could be subject to “vile abuse”.

Reading FC are yet to confirm the allegations, but it was understood that an announcement would be made this week.

Al-Habsi remains a firm favourite among the Royals' faithful, and his name can often be heard ringing out from the stands.

More to follow.