Fulham have strongly condemned the racist and homophobic online abuse directed at Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey following Sunday’s FA Cup penalty shootout win at Manchester United.
Nigeria international Bassey, who scored the opening goal at Old Trafford, shared examples of the offensive messages he received on social media.
“We strongly condemn this abhorrent behaviour, which has no place in football or society,” Fulham said in a statement.
“Such actions are entirely unacceptable, and we stand in full support of Calvin Bassey, who will continue to receive our full backing.
“We will do everything in our power to work with the relevant authorities in identifying the perpetrators of these vile messages and taking the strongest form of action against them.”
The Premier League also condemned the abuse, stating it was “appalled” and pledged to support both Bassey and Fulham.
“We work with social media companies and authorities to help ensure any individuals found guilty of discrimination face the strongest possible consequences,” the league added.
The incident follows a worrying trend of online abuse targeting players, including Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure, England defender Kyle Walker, Newcastle’s Joe Willock, and Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw.
Samuel Okafor, chief executive of anti-discrimination group Kick It Out, recently told BBC Sport that abuse in English football had “reached crisis point.”
Bassey’s goal was cancelled out in the second half by Bruno Fernandes, leaving the game level at 1-1 after 90 minutes and extra time.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
