Bullet Addressed to Anton Ferdinand Sent to Queens Park Rangers

Police are investigating a "malicious package", said to contain a shotgun cartridge, which was addressed to Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.

The package was hand delivered to QPR's Loftus Road stadium on Friday, on the eve of their FA Cup fourth round meeting with Chelsea.

"I can confirm we are investigating an allegation of malicious communication received today at Queens Park Rangers football club," said a statement by Metropolitan Police on Friday. "Officers from Hammersmith and Fulham are investigating."

Saturday's clash will see Ferdinand reunited with John Terry for the first time since the England captain allegedly racially abused him in a Premier League encounter last October. Terry faces charges relating to the incident and will go before a Magistrates' court next week.

Both Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas and QPR owner Tony Fernandes have urged Ferdinand to shake Terry's hand before the game, with QPR manager Mark Hughes saying the decision will ultimately be made by Ferdinand himself.

Fearing inappropriate chanting, police have urged both sets of fans to behave themselves on Saturday, and will be monitoring the crowd closely.