Croatia defender Joe Simunic has denied he used a pro-nazi salute and a offensive language as he celebrated his country qualifying for the World Cup, when they beat Iceland.

He has issued a statment saying even the thought that anyone could connect me with insighting violence is just horrible.

Simunic took a microphone on to the pitch after the victory and shouts "For the homeland!"

The fans respond "ready!".

That was the war cry used by Ustashas, the Croatian pro-Nazi puppet regime which ruled the state during World War II when tens of thousands Jews, Serbs and others perished in concentration camps.

The Australian born player's defended his actions, imeediately after, saying "some people have to learn some history. I'm not afraid. I did nothing wrong, I'm supporting my Croatia, my homeland. "

The same chant coupled with the Nazi salute has often been used by Croatian fans in the past.

FIFA and UEFA have fined the CFA several times because of the behaviour of their supporters.