A man has been arrested following the claims of racist abuse at yesterday’s Manchester Derby. There were also objects thrown towards Manchester United players from an area of Manchester City fans. A 41-year-old is being held on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order and remains in custody.
Arrest Made Following Claims of Racist Abuse at Manchester Derby
Abuse Made and Objects Thrown
A video circulating on social media appeared to show a man in the home end of supporters making monkey gestures and sounds towards Manchester United players.
In the same video, United midfielder Fred could be seen walking to take a corner but then turning, walking back and crouching down after appearing to be struck by an object.
The Brazillian told reporters after the match: “On the field, I didn’t see anything. I saw it only in the locker room afterwards. The guys showed me. [A man] even threw a lighter and it hit me.”
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer added: “Fred and Jesse [Lingard] were in the corner, taking a corner, and I’ve seen the video, heard from the boys.”
What Else is Being Done?
In a statement on their website, Manchester City said: “The club are also working with GMP (Greater Manchester Police) regarding an instance of objects being thrown on to the field of play.
“The club operates a zero-tolerance policy regarding discrimination of any kind, and anyone found guilty of racial abuse will be banned from the club for life.”
The FA have also said they will hold discussions with both teams, as well as the police and match referee Anthony Taylor.
Elsewhere…
Unfortunately, this wasn’t the only alleged case of racist abuse at English football matches over the weekend. In League Two, Forest Green Rovers’ match against Scunthorpe United was temporarily halted in the second half after a report of abuse was made to the referee.
In a statement on their Twitter feed after the game, Forest Green said: “We can confirm we are currently investigating a report of racist abuse from a single fan towards an opposition player.
“We do not tolerate racism, and the ongoing investigation will end with a lifetime ban if found guilty.”
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