Fans entered the pitch after both goals

Uefa gave the Football Association a �70,000 fine on Thursday as punishment for fans invading the pitch and racially abusing Turkey supporters during the game at Sunderland in April.

But the FA has been warned by European football's governing body that any more repeat performances could see them banned from Euro 2004.

Uefa spokesman Mike Lee said it was the largest fine ever handed out by the governing body over a racist abuse charge.

"This sends a very clear signal and warning to the English FA about the issues of safety and security and the racist behaviour of English fans," said Lee.

The threat of expulsion is clearly something available to Uefa - particularly in respect of a final tournament Uefa spokesman Mike Lee

"They should regard this as a final warning and I think the FA has seen that and recognise that.

"The track record of travelling fans particularly is deplorable and the FA is taking further steps to show they are taking the matter seriously.

"We trust those steps are going to be effective but if not disciplinary proceedings will be back on the agenda."

"The threat of expulsion is clearly something available to Uefa, particularly in respect of a final tournament."

There had been fears Uefa would make Middlesbrough close the doors of their Riverside Stadium for the crunch tie with Slovakia.

"By imposing a record fine and severely warning us of future conduct of English supporters the message is clear and we respect this," said FA spokesman Paul Barber.

"Uefa can be assured we intend to maintain and step up our work in these important areas."

Middlesbrough were understandably delighted that the match will go ahead in front of fans.

HAVE YOUR SAY I'm sorry, but this just shows how unwilling Uefa are to deal with the racism issue. What is needed is the docking of points from the team who "fans" behave in such a way. Z Okolo Join the 606 debate

Chief executive Keith Lamb said: "It is obviously great news for the football club, the people of Teesside and England in general.

"With a capacity crowd we are sure 11 June will prove to be a great day in the history of Middlesbrough Football Club.

"We have continued to plan for the big day in much the same way as we had before Uefa charged the FA and those preparations are now well advanced.

"Everyone at the club is now looking forward with much anticipation to the match.

"We want to ensure that it is a hugely enjoyable experience for England and Slovakia supporters alike."

The FA earlier pledged to 'name and shame' the fans who went on to the pitch at Sunderland and then ban them from watching the national side for life.

English football's governing body has also admitted it is "highly unlikely" to accept a ticket allocation for the away fixture against Turkey in October.