Police probe alleged online racist abuse of Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey after Tottenham match | OneFootball

Northumbria Police are investigating alleged online racist abuse aimed at Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey after Sunday’s match against Tottenham Hotspur.

As reported by Sunderland Echo, the Stadium of Light contest was feisty, with Brobbey involved in an early challenge on Pedro Porro that prompted debate over whether he could have faced further punishment. Later he appeared to nudge Cristian Romero into goalkeeper Antonín Kinský, angering the visitors. Sunderland took the points through Nordi Mukiele’s second-half goal.

After full-time, Brobbey appeared to be targeted on social media following a post on his Instagram, with alleged discriminatory comments circulating. Northumbria Police said they are looking into the reports and condemned discrimination, adding it has no place in society and local communities.

Sunderland said in a statement that they condemn in the strongest terms the racist abuse directed at Brobbey online and that the club stands with him with full, unwavering support. They said the incident has been reported to the Premier League, the relevant social media platforms and the police, and that they expect swift action. The club added that racism is abhorrent, must be called out every time, and that football should be a safe and inclusive environment for all.

The club also referenced recent abuse aimed at Romaine Mundle and Lutsharel Geertruida, saying the frequency of such behaviour remains unacceptable. This is the third incident in three months, following allegations of racist abuse directed at Mundle after the Premier League fixture against Fulham in February.

Source: Sunderland Echo