The FA have asked Fifa to investigate allegations of racist abuse directed towards Emile Heskey, which marred England's 4-1 victory over Croatia in Zagreb.

The Wigan Athletic forward was subjected to a barrage of abuse throughout the match, with monkey chants being heard during much of the second half.

"We can confirm that we will be making a report to Fifa about the racist chanting aimed at Emile Heskey by some Croatia fans during the World Cup qualifying game in Zagreb," an FA spokesman said. "It is unacceptable for anyone to be subjected to racial abuse and we will be asking Fifa to investigate this.

"The FA and England team are determined to do all they can to eradicate any form of racism from football and society."

Heskey, who played a key role in the 4-1 victory said he was determined to rise above the abuse.

"You have to let the people above deal with that and I'll carry on playing my game," Heskey said after the match. "They are ignorant people, you have to ignore it and enjoy your game. Their players weren't happy about it either."

Croatia were fined during Euro 2008 after their supporters chanted racist abuse during a game against Turkey.

Piara Powar, a director for the anti-racism campaign Kick It Out, said: "Their fans are being monitored for incidents of racial abuse and evidence of far-right activities.

"A number of preventative initiatives are under way with Croatian fan groups, the more progressive of whom understand the damage these types of incidents do to the standing of Croatia and its people.

"Longer term, we are involved in a European campaign to ensure to all governments, football associations and clubs across Eastern and Central Europe know what political and educational action they need to take to engender tolerant attitudes and an appreciation of Europe as it is.

"It is not an easy undertaking but one that is crucial to the future of the new Europe."