Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston asked to explain phone messages

The Blackpool chairman, Karl Oyston, has been asked by the Football Association to provide his observations about insulting text messages he sent to a supporter.

Oyston has been urged to resign by the club's president Valeri Belokon after he allegedly called a supporter a "retard".

He engaged in a series of foul-mouthed text messages with Blackpool supporter Stephen Smith and Oyston is also said to have told him to "enjoy the rest of your special needs day out".

The FA is looking into the issue and has asked Oyston, who has already issued a public apology, to respond by Thursday.

An FA statement said: ”Having only recently come into possession of all the relevant material, the FA has sought the observations of Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston in relation to text messages he is alleged to have sent to a third party. Mr Oyston has until Thursday 15 January 2015 to respond.”

In a statement issued through the club in December, Oyston apologised and said he was “challenging some of the abuse, harassment and threats” he had received after his mobile phone number was made public on a website.

Belokon, who owns 20% of the club’s shares, said Oyston should resign and also stated he would be prepared to buy out the Oyston family if they were interested in selling.