It is important to get them started young, hone that loutish behaviour in their formative years. That certainly seems to be the stance taken by Downham United soccer club in Kent with regard to the Under-10s.

At a recent Easter and Spring festival of football involving 850 childrens' teams at the Pontins Camber Sands centre in England, Downham United who have ties with Millwall FC, disgraced themselves in no uncertain fashion.

The mini thugs, encouraged by parents, punched, kicked and elbowed the opposition as well as verbally abusing players and referees. One official described it as the worst behaviour he has ever seen on a football field.

Downham even burnt a pennant presented to them. What may appal the English FA at Lancaster Gate is that despite their obnoxious conduct the club was allowed to stay and collect their trophies from former Leeds and England star Paul Reaney.