Sheffield Wednesday have issued a strong condemnation after one of their players was subjected to “disgraceful and completely unacceptable racist messages” on social media.
The abuse followed Monday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Leicester City.
The club, who have not publicly identified the player targeted, confirmed they are collaborating with authorities to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement posted on X, the relegated Owls expressed their outrage, stating: “Sheffield Wednesday are aware of disgraceful and completely unacceptable racist messages directed towards one of our players on social media following Monday’s 1-1 draw against Leicester.
“The club condemn in the strongest tone any form of racism or discrimination and will work side by side with the relevant authorities to bring the offenders to justice. It is not the first time we find ourselves in this position. It is deplorable on every level.
“Our zero-tolerance stance remains steadfast and unequivocal. Racism is cowardly. It has no place in society. We stand together, and only together can we stamp it out.”
Racism in football has been in the spotlight in recent weeks after four Premier League players were racially abused across one weekend in late February.
Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana, Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland’s Romaine Mundle werw all subjected to online vitriol.
Anti-Muslim chants were also heard during Spain’s friendly fixture with Egypt last week.
The chants were condemned by Spain boss Luis de la Fuente, and star player Lamine Yamal.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Yamal wrote: “I am a Muslim. Yesterday at the stadium the chant ‘the one who doesn’t jump is a Muslim’ was heard,” he wrote.
“I know I was playing for the rival team and it wasn’t something personal against me, but as a Muslim person it doesn’t stop being disrespectful and something intolerable.
“I understand not all fans are like this, but to those who sing these things, using a religion as a mockery on the field makes you ignorant and racist people.”
“Football is to be enjoyed and encouraged, not to disrespect people for who they are or what they believe in.”
