TWO football fans were thrown out of a Premier League game and arrested over homophobic abuse.

The visiting supporters were detained during Albion's match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Amex yesterday.

The arrests came as Albion celebrated equality and diversity, by supporting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.

The pair were removed from the Amex by stewards then arrested by Sussex Police outside the stadium.

Chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber said: “It’s both sad and depressing that, once again, we find ourselves having to address another situation of discriminatory abuse.

“Prior to kick-off, we had a huge show of support for the Rainbow Laces campaign brilliantly backed by the vast majority of people inside the stadium — and yet before the game is over, we are forced to deal with these two individuals, who think it’s okay to behave in this way.

“Working with Sussex Police, I’m pleased to report that once again our staff were able to take swift action, which hopefully will increase the chances of a conviction.

"We simply won’t stand for it at the Amex.

"Once again, it’s very hard to comprehend why some individuals think it's acceptable to behave in this way, but we are very clear that neither Brighton and Hove Albion, nor the wider football community, will tolerate homophobia or discrimination at any time, in any form.

"We would urge any fans confronted with similar discriminatory behaviour to report it immediately."

Sussex Police provided an update on the arrested pair.

A spokesman said: "Two football fans were arrested following reports of homophobic gestures made at the Amex Stadium on Sunday.

"The suspects – both away fans during Brighton and Hove Albion’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers – were identified by club stewards and arrested on suspicion of using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

"The two men – aged 46 and 48, and both from Bridgnorth in Shropshire – have been released under investigation pending further enquiries."