UEFA are to launch an investigation into the racial abuse and missiles that were hurled by PSV Eindhoven fans at Arsenal striker Thierry Henry last night.

Referee Lubos Michel was seen collecting various objects, which were throwen onto the pitch towards the France striker.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger reacted furiously:

‘That sort of behaviour is terrible and it should be banned,’ said Wenger. ‘I think that UEFA will react.’

‘We did not feel under threat but there are always some crazy people in every crowd. It’s up to UEFA to react and we have full confidence in them to do that.’

UEFA communications director Mike Lee reacted swiftly to the allegations, confirming that an investigation would be launched immediately.

‘On the evidence of last night we will begin an investigation,’ he said.

‘Now we will look at the evidence.’

Henry, who had the last laugh by scoring twice in Arsenal’s 4-0 win, said: ‘They were throwing coins, lighters and other stuff. I don’t know whether you heard what they were saying or saw what they were doing.

‘I don’t want to talk about it as I just want to talk about football, but it’s a bit of a shame. Obviously I have two ears but you didn’t see me shout back. The referee was doing his business and I was just waiting to take the corner-kicks.

‘If UEFA do their business, they will do their business. But we don’t want to forget that our team have done a great performance.’