Fifa slammed by Culture Secretary Karen Bradley for disciplinary action against England and Scotland over poppies

FIFA should “see sense” and drop disciplinary action against England and Scotland for poppy wearing at their Armistice Day clash, says Culture Secretary Karen Bradley.

Football’s world governing body charged both countries’ FAs after players wore armbands decorated with the symbol.

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It said the decision at the Wembley World Cup qualifier on November 11 breached rules concerning political messages.

The FAs could be fined or even have World Cup qualifying points deducted. But Mrs Bradley said: “I urge Fifa to see sense and withdraw the threat of sanctions.

“If a player wants to wear a poppy, they should be able to do so, as should fans.”

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England and Scotland defied the governing body in their game, which England won 3-0.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) and Irish Football Association (IFA) have also been charged.

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The FAW revealed it had been charged over supporters wearing poppies in the crowd during the Wales v Serbia match on November 12. The IFA is also under investigation for fans wearing poppies at Northern Ireland's game against Azerbaijan on November 11.

All four nations now face the possibility of a fine, while in theory even a World Cup qualifying points deduction is possible.