Mykhailo Mudryk apologises after racist video emerges

The video was filmed in 2017

New Chelsea signing Mykhailo Mudryk has apologised after a video of him using a racist term emerged. Mudryk, who signed an £88m deal with Chelsea earlier this month, was filmed rapping along to Lil Baby's hit 'Freestyle' in July. In the song, the N-word is referenced and the Ukrainian can be seen singing along to the words, repeating the lyrics while stood alongside an Audi sports car - next to a friend - in a video that has over 200,000 views on TikTok. The video has since been removed as a result of the backlash and the 22-year-old has apologised for using the term. "Mykhailo is deeply sorry for any offence caused by the video posted on his TikTok account last July," a representative told The Sun. "Whilst his intention was solely to recite lyrics of a song, Mykhailo regrets his decision and wholeheartedly accepts it was not appropriate. The video has since been removed."

Kick It Out, the anti-racism group, also released a statement explaining why the phrase is "deeply offensive" but did praise him for acknowledging his use of the slur. They said: "Kick It Out condemns the use of all racial slurs, including the N-word irrespective of context. "The N-word is deeply offensive and the use of this term by high-profile figures in football can only serve to alienate people from the game. "It is important that footballers use their significant platform in a positive way, and we’re encouraged to see that Mykaylo Mudryk has acknowledged the hurt caused by his use of this offensive slur." Mudryk made his debut for the Blues as a second half substitute in the 0-0 draw away at Liverpool and could make his first start against Fulham on Friday. Related links: