Credit: Premier League
Merseyside police have launched an investigation against fans who racially abused France footballer Abdoulaye Doucoure after Liverpool ended the game with Everton in the Goodison Park at a stalemate with the figures of 2-2. The incident has drawn the attention of high-ranking officials in Merseyside Police.
Discussing the matter, Chief superintendent Claire Doyle of Merseyside Police gave a statement, saying, "We have successfully prosecuted so-called fans for racist abuse and they have been handed football banning orders along with a criminal record for their behaviour.” Claire also requested people to assist police in finding the culprits who did the shameful act.
"If you have any information in relation please let us know because it could help our ongoing enquiries," said the top official of Merseyside Police.
Following the incident, both Everton and Liverpool stood in solidarity with the French footballer. The joint statement by both clubs condemned the act and they also said they will assist Merseyside Police to catch the abusers.
"Together, the two clubs will work with Merseyside Police, who are conducting an investigation with the aim of identifying the individuals responsible. We also encourage people who witness or experience online abuse to report and highlight it to the social media platforms on which it appears," said both clubs.
Both clubs also urged social media sites to be stern and ruthless against people who misuse the platform. The two teams also requested social media outlets to ban users who spew venom through the platforms available on the internet.
"We must all, including the social media companies, take a zero-tolerance stance. Platforms need to take accountability and action to ban such abusers. Racism and hate has no place online, in our stadiums or in our communities."
Premier League displays support for midfielder
Noting the severity of the matter, Premier League also issued a statement in support of Doucoure. "We join Everton and Liverpool in strongly condemning this abhorrent abuse and have offered our full support to Abdoulaye and the club," remarked England’s illustrious football league.
Recently, former Nigerian footballer Samuel Okafor, who is also the head of anti-discrimination body Kick It Out (KIO), called out the level of indiscipline and abuse in English football while appearing in an interview with BBC Sport. France’s midfielder Doucoure will not feature in Everton’s next game against Crystal Palace to be held in Selhurst Park on Saturday, as the 32-year-old has been suspended after his altercation with Cutis Jones in the match against Liverpool.
