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Football

13th Oct 2021

Man Utd’s Anthony Elanga says he was racially abused by opponent

Simon Lloyd

Elanga reported the incident after the match

Manchester United youngster Anthony Elanga has said he was the victim of racist abuse while representing Sweden’s Under-21 side on Tuesday.

Elanga played a full 90 minutes of the 1-1 draw with Italy in Monza. According to the Swedish FA, the 19-year-old was the subject of a racist comment from an opponent during the game and reported it after the full-time whistle.

Claes Eriksson, the Swedish Under-21 side’s manager, indicated after the game that they were waiting for the match report before deciding on the appropriate response.

“We have told our version of what happened and have submitted an oral report to both referees and the match delegates,” Eriksson said.

“We are now waiting for feedback through the match report and the referee report. Once they have arrived, we decide how to proceed. Safety manager Martin Freedman is also informed of what has happened.”

He added: “No one should have to be exposed to racism, it is completely unacceptable. We all stand behind and support Anthony in this.”

Despite falling behind shortly before half-time, Sweden were able to salvage a 1-1 draw thanks to a last-gasp equaliser from Tim Prica.

Elanga made his first team debut for United towards the end of last season, scoring his first goal for the club in the Premier League game against Wolves.

He has made one first team appearance this campaign – in the EFL Cup defeat at home to West Ham in September.

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