Chief Executive Lars-Christer Olsson said: "England is a good example in the way they have campaigned and addressed the behaviour of fans and players towards each other in the fight against racism.

"There, it is not accepted by public opinion but there are other countries where the subject is not that important."

European football's governing body have warned several times in the past they will not tolerate racist abuse and are prepared to dock points and kick clubs out of their competitions.

Olsson confirmed: "We have to use the strongest sanctions, which ultimately are to kick them out of the competitions. It is a tricky balance because we cannot have a match decided in the boardrooms. It should be decided on the field."

UEFA have also have been greatly impressed by the huge strides achieved in recent years in improving the behaviour and image of England fans domestically and internationally, and following Euro 2004 publicly paid tribute to the contribution made to the tournament by England fans.

England Head Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has urged England fans to build upon these positive developments in Germany next year.

Following Friday's World Cup draw, he called on supporters to show proper respect for the host country and its people.

He said: "Our fans can be the best fans in the world. They have shown great improvement in recent years but the one thing myself and the players would like is for them to stop chanting the song about ‘Ten German bombers’ which is very disrespectful to the host nation.

"It’s important we respect our hosts and build on the great work that has been done. If they can cut out this song it would be fantastic."