SOUTHEND United are at the centre of a Football Association investigation after a smoke bomb was let off by the Shrimpers’ travelling supporters during Saturday’s 2-1 win at Portsmouth.

The smoke bomb was released in the away end, which was occupied by more than 1,200 Blues fans, after Joe Pigott had put Phil Brown’s side 2-1 in front.

But Shrimpers’ chief executive Steve Kavanagh has now revealed the incident could well land the club in trouble.

“We have been informed that we’re now at the centre of an FA investigation after a smoke bomb was let off in the away end at Portsmouth on Saturday,” confirmed Kavanagh.

“I know people think they look good and that they add to the atmosphere but they are considered as a huge risk by the authorities and we could be facing any kind of punishment now.

“We would strongly urge our supporters not to bring these items in to the ground as they are considered to be very dangerous.”

Blues are now nervously waiting for news of the investigation.

But possible punishments could well include having their allocation of away tickets reduced.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen in truth but we could be fined and we could have our away allocation reduced for forthcoming matches,” said Kavanagh.

“It’s also possible that we could have to fork out more money to have an added police presence at the game and it’s all quite disappointing.

“Our fans have been fantastic this season, especially away from home where we are up there with the very best in the league.

“It’s just a shame that a very small minority have acted in the way.

“We want everyone right behind us during this very important stage of the season, but we want the fans to behave in the right way, which most of them do.”