Sheffield Wednesday have issued a statement strongly denying any wrongdoing after allegations of overcrowding in the Newcastle United away end at Hillsborough during the FA Cup third round tie between the sides.

The FA are investigating after reports of overcrowding in the lower tier of the Leppings Lane end, the same stand in which 97 Liverpool fans died in a crush at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final.

Newcastle fans have since told of their fear and Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool, West Derby, and survivor of the Hillsborough disaster, said it was "soul chilling" to see the images of overcrowding emerge at the weekend.

Sheffield Wednesday have now responded to the allegations and say the number of stewards working in the Leppings Lane End "exceeded the requirements of the Safety Certificate".  The club also say there were no reports of injuries or requirement for medical assistance before, during or after the game.

The statement reads: "Further to a request from the Football Association on the afternoon of Monday 9 January, Sheffield Wednesday has now submitted its comprehensive observations to the governing body following last weekend’s Emirates FA Cup third round tie with Newcastle United.

"We have engaged in extensive dialogue with all relevant parties to review the circumstances to best assist the FA with their enquiries.

"Whilst it is inappropriate to outline in full the details of the submission at this time, the club feels it is important to emphasise that the stewarding numbers in place within the visitors’ section of the stadium exceeded the requirements of the Safety Certificate. The allocation of tickets issued to Newcastle supporters also complied absolutely with the Safety Certificate.

"In addition, fewer supporters entered the visitors’ turnstiles when aligned to the number of tickets allocated and sold. The turnstiles were opened 30 minutes earlier than a regular matchday, two hours before kick-off at 4:00pm, to allow Newcastle supporters to enter the stadium in a timely a manner as possible.

"There were no reports of injuries or medical assistance required on the West Stand logged with the club’s first aid Operations Manager before, during and after the game.

"Whilst we continue to assist and engage with the FA and explore all options, the club will be making no further comment at this time."

The Sports Grounds Safety Authority expressed concerns after the reports of overcrowding emerged over the weekend.

A spokesperson told Sky Sports: "We are concerned by reports of overcrowding and crushing at the FA Cup tie between Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United at Hillsborough Stadium on Saturday evening.

"The SGSA is now working with the club, Sheffield City Council and the Safety Advisory Group to review the event, learn any lessons and ensure a safe environment for football fans."