Dwight Yorke used to play for Blackburn Rovers

They were charged on Tuesday after the Birmingham City player was allegedly taunted during a game against his former team Blackburn Rovers.

Shaun Baxter, 35, of Belper Street, Andrew Roberts, 19, and Brian Hargreaves, 20, both of Arron Avenue, appeared before Blackburn magistrates.

They are charged with racially aggravated public order offences.

It follows the game held at Blackburn's home ground, Ewood Park, on 21 November.

Banning order

Last month Jason Perryman, 22, of Chorley, Lancashire, pleaded guilty to a similar charge and was fined �1,000 plus �75 costs.

He was also given a five-year football banning order from attending matches in England or Wales.

David Ashcroft, 21, of Brantwood Drive in Leyland, Lancashire, appeared alongside Perryman and denied the offence.

He was bailed to appear again on 22 December.

Magistrates granted an application to adjourn Thursday's hearing and the three men were released on unconditional bail to return to the same court on 16 December.