Lord Triesman today demanded an urgent meeting with FIFA president Sepp Blatter to discuss racist abuse of England players ahead of next Wednesday's World Cup qualifier in Belarus.

The Croatian FA were fined a paltry £15,000 after their fans hurled insults at Emile Heskey during England's 4-1 win in Zagreb last month, and Football Association chairman Triesman wants talks with Blatter to resolve the situation.

"I will seek an early meeting with Sepp Blatter to discuss the response to the racist taunts aimed at Emile Heskey, and I do so with confidence," Triesman said ahead of England's second trip of the season to eastern Europe.

"I want to make sure that instances of racism and racist abuse [at the top level] are dealt with fully and effectively.

"We have to ensure that we all understand the seriousness of racism to the same extent.

"Every discussion I have had with Sepp Blatter tells me that he is very passionate about it."

Speaking at today's Leaders In Football Summit for prominent figures within the game, Triesman also called for a life-ban for fans who subject players to sick taunts during matches.

Sol Campbell had to endure severe abuse from Tottenham supporters during their match at Campbell's latest club Portsmouth on 28 September, which has been condemned throughout the game.

The police are investigating the treatment suffered by Campbell, whose move from Tottenham to Arsenal still rankles with some Spurs fans, while the FA have launched their own investigation.

Triesman continued: "I abhor the treatment dished out to Sol Campbell by Spurs fans, and I hope that the individuals can be identified and banned from the Tottenham ground.

"Those fans have let themselves down and their club down in a way that is just unacceptable. We have to be very clear about it.

"People tell me that it is very hard to drive out these kind of things, but people said that about racism during the days when you heard racist chanting at virtually every ground.

"It was possible to do a great deal about that, although not enough yet. It is a matter of obligation. It is up to the clubs not to have the supporters in the ground who chant that kind of abuse."