FA to investigate whether Roberto Firmino racially abused Mason Holgate during Merseyside derby

The FA will investigate whether Everton defender Mason Holgate was racially abused by Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino during Friday night’s Merseyside derby.

Virgil van Dijk’s debut goal in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Everton was overshadowed by the incident in the first half.

Referee Bobby Madley will report the incident to the FA in his match report and an investigation will follow. Liverpool have released a statement saying they will fully cooperate with the investigation.

Firmino and Holgate were involved in an angry confrontation after the Everton defender pushed the Brazilian off the pitch and into the main stand five minutes before halftime. Words were then exchanged which left Holgate incensed. He could be seen on camera telling Madley he was a victim of a racial slur. Neither player was booked for the incident.

Madley then spoke with the fourth official, Jon Moss, to report the allegation and spoke to Holgate at the end of the game.