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Blackpool chairman Karl Oyston could face a ban from football after an FA investigation into abusive texts he sent to supporters last year.

If found guilty of misconduct Oyston, a member of the Football League board, faces a punishment similar to that handed out to former Wigan chairman Dave Whelan.

Oyston exchanged texts with fans after his mobile number was circulated in December.

During one exchange he referred to fan Stephen Smith as a ‘retard’ and told him to ‘enjoy the rest of your special needs day out’.

He apologised but Smith made an official complaint to the FA. The matter has been under investigation since.

Whelan was banned for six weeks and fined £50,000 for using racist language after Malky Mackay became boss.