Police investigate racist Ashley Young, Ashley Cole tweets

Police have launched an investigation into allegations of racist abuse on Twitter towards England duo Ashley Young and Ashley Cole last night.

It has been reported that the pair were the subject of abuse after they had missed penalties during England's loss to Italy in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.

Having received a number of complaints from people on the social networking site, the authorities have confirmed that they are now looking into the matter.

"We are aware of alleged racist comments on Twitter following last night's England game and have launched an investigation," said a spokesman.

"The allegation was made by a member of the public relating to comments on a Twitter account supposedly based in London.

"The Metropolitan Police Service is examining possible offences under Section 18/19 Public Order Act 1986."

No arrests have been made.