A damming statement from Kick It Out has been released following the allegations of racial abuse aimed at Brentford players and their families at the weekend.
Following Brentford's win over Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday, Brentford players Ivan Toney and Rico Henry took to social media to share that their family members had been the subject of racist abuse. Striker Ivan Toney tweeted last night: "And for the man that racially abused my family [I'll] do everything I can to get you the punishment you deserve!"
Rico Henry tweeted: "I never usually speak out on things that don’t physically harm me or my family but to see my mom upset after being racially abused by a few Everton fans brought fire to my stomach!"
READ MORE: Everton respond to Ivan Toney after allegations of racist abuse
The reported racist abuse comes just hours after two Burnley supporters were arrested on suspicion of racially-aggravated public order offence following the match between Tottenham and Burnley, where a visiting fan was seen appearing to perform a Nazi salute. Troy Townsend, head of player engagement at Kick It Out, said: “We have been made aware of a spate of new alleged anti-Semitic and racist comments and gestures linked to several clubs over the weekend.
“Whilst investigations are ongoing, we cannot comment on the specifics of cases. However, the events of the weekend once again highlight the fact that hate is still alive and well within football.
“Everton, Burnley and Tottenham all acted swiftly and we commend their energy in addressing these incidents. We hope appropriate and decisive action is taken against all those involved.
“Our support goes out to the victims. We will not stop fighting until hate is eradicated from our sport. Football is a game for everyone.”
Merseyside Police confirmed late on Sunday that it is investigating the reported abuse aimed at the players' families. Detective Inspector Catherine Cox said: “No matter what football team you support, there is absolutely no place for hate anywhere in Merseyside under any circumstances.
“Merseyside Police has investigated and successfully prosecuted so-called fans for racial abuse inside football stadia, and offenders have been handed football banning orders along with a criminal record for their behaviour.
“We will support the victims in this case and work with Everton Football Club to find those responsible and bring them to justice. Their views and their abuse is not welcome here in Merseyside, and they do not represent the overwhelming majority of football fans.”
Everton responded to Toney’s post with a tweet which read: “There is no place in football – or society – for racism. We are assisting Merseyside Police to ensure the individual is identified and dealt with appropriately.”
