Anti-racism group Kick It Out has called for the FA to launch an investigation into comments made by Roy Hodgson regarding Andros Townsend at half time of England's crucial World Cup qualifier against Poland on Tuesday.

Hodgson referenced a joke regarding a monkey in space during his team talk, urging full-back Chris Smalling to pass the ball to Townsend by telling him to "feed the monkey".

Hodgson apologised for any offence he may have caused with his comments, but Kick It Out still wants the authorities to undertake a full inquiry into the incident.

"Kick It Out, football's equality and inclusion campaign, recognises and shares the concerns of the parties who felt mindful to bring the comments into the public domain," read a statement by Kick It Out.

"The matter has been raised by the chair, Lord Herman Ouseley, directly with the Football Association, who acknowledges the apology made by Roy Hodgson, and now seeks an investigation to ascertain the full facts and ensure a similar situation does not arise again."

Ouseley insisted that it was not a serious enough offence to warrant Hodgson losing his job, but believes that the FA have a "duty" to investigate the incident.

"It is not a hanging offence, no-one is calling for Hodgson to lose his job, but the FA cannot ignore it, offence has been caused," Ouseley told reporters.

"All the FA has to do is examine the facts and make a statement. If they do not then there will be recriminations from other players."

Townsend has shrugged off the incident, saying that no offence was meant or taken.