Liverpool have mentioned they’re “appalled and disgusted” by racist abuse directed towards defender Ibrahima Konate on social media.
The France worldwide was concerned in a problem with Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen in the course of the first half of Liverpool‘s 4-0 Champions League win at Anfield on Wednesday.
Osimhen was subbed off at half-time and it was later revealed by the Turkish aspect that he had fractured his forearm.
It led to Konate receiving racist abuse on-line which Liverpool mentioned was “completely unacceptable”.
“It is dehumanising, cowardly and rooted in hate,” the membership mentioned on Friday.
“Racism has no place in football, no place in society and no place anywhere – online or offline.
“Our gamers should not targets. They are human beings. The abuse that continues to be directed at gamers, usually hidden behind nameless accounts, is a stain on the sport and on the platforms that enable it to persist.”
The club said they were offering Konate their “full help” and working with the relevant authorities to identify those responsible.
Last month, police confirmed they have been investigating after four Premier League players experienced online racial abuse in a single weekend.
Osimhen appeared to fall awkwardly following a challenge with Konate in the eighth minute, but he played on until he was replaced by Leroy Sane at the break.
Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk complained about referee Pawel Raczkowski’s decision-making following the Nigeria striker’s injury.
“Looking at Osimhen’s place, we noticed that Konate was in a position to commit these fouls very simply, he may simply apply any sort of foul,” Buruk mentioned.
“While we have been anticipating the very best referee on the planet, maybe one of many worst referees officiated the sport.”
Liverpool won the last-16 tie 4-1 on aggregate and will face holders Paris St-Germain in next month’s quarter-finals.
The club called on social media companies to “take accountability and act now” to prevent racist abuse being directed towards players online.
“These platforms have the ability, the expertise and the assets to forestall this abuse, but too usually they fail to take action,” Liverpool mentioned.
“Allowing racist hatred to unfold unchecked is a alternative – and it’s one which continues to hurt gamers, households and communities throughout the sport.
“The current situation cannot be allowed to continue. It must be confronted, challenged and eradicated – not tomorrow, but now.”
