Sunderland have restated their zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination after former player James McClean alleged he was the target of sectarian abuse at the weekend. Derry-born McClean, who spent two years with the Black Cats between 2011 and 2013, was back on Wearside on Saturday as his current club Wigan Athletic was beaten 2-1 at the Stadium of Light.
And following the game the 33-year-old Republic of Ireland international took to Instagram to allege he was the victim of sectarian abuse, and called upon the FA and the EFL to take action. Sunderland responded with a statement saying: "Sunderland AFC has a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of discrimination.
"The club is committed to providing an inclusive, family-friendly environment at the Stadium of Light and strongly condemns any supporter found to be engaging in any form of discriminatory behaviour. Whilst the majority of fans behave impeccably when supporting SAFC, there have been multiple incidents during the 2022-23 season that are unacceptable and have resulted in ejection, stadium bans and criminal investigations.
