Police launch investigation into racist abuse aimed at four Premier League players

All four clubs have released statements

The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) said it has received four separate reports of abuse towards Premier League players in the last three days.

Wolves striker and the Sunderland midfielder Romaine Mundle were the victims of online abuse on Sunday, following on from abuse aimed at Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana and Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri on Saturday.

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, the head of the UKFPU, said on Monday: “There is absolutely no place for racial abuse, either online or in person, and anyone who believes they can hide behind their keyboards should think again.

“The UKFPU condemns this abhorrent behaviour and we will ensure that, through our dedicated team of officers, we do everything possible to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”

All four clubs have released statements responding the the racist abuse received.

The Premier League issued its own statements on the latest incidents, vowing to assist Wolves’ and Sunderland’s investigations, committing to “serious consequences” for guilty parties and reaffirming: “Football is for everyone – there is no room for racism.”

A statement from the anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out read: “We stand in solidarity with Wolves’ Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland’s Romaine Mundle.

“This has been an appalling weekend after four players called out the racist abuse they’ve received on social media. But the sad fact is, we know it happens regularly. The message from them is loud and clear: action must follow. Players cannot be expected to tolerate this behaviour, and nor should anyone else.”