Bosses at the Football Association have launched a scathing attack on those responsible for racially abusing Ashley Young and Ashley Cole online.

The two players were abused after they missed penalties during England's Euro 2012 quarter-final shootout against Italy.

Police are also investigating after Chelsea defender Ashley Cole and Manchester United winger Ashley Young were singled out for abuse on Twitter by one user.

In a series of offensive postings, the user goaded others who criticised him for his rants.