MK Dons player allegedly subject to racist abuse in match at Walsall
MK Dons have confirmed one of their players was subject to alleged racist abuse during a match at Walsall earlier this week.
The League One club made a statement earlier today (21/10) confirming an unnamed player was the target of an alleged racist comment during their EFL Trophy match at Walsall’s Poundland Bescot Stadium on Tuesday night (18/10).
In their statement, MK Dons confirmed that they had received a quick response from Walsall along with both West Midlands and Thames Valley police forces.
They said, “Milton Keynes Dons are aware of an alleged racist comment directed towards one of our players, during the first half of Tuesday’s Papa John’s Trophy tie with Walsall.
“The Club was appalled to learn of this incident and we appreciate the swift response from Walsall and West Midlands Police in contacting us and Thames Valley Police regarding the matter.
“We strongly support their plans to investigate and we encourage anyone with information that could help identify the individual to come forward to Walsall Football Club or West Midlands Police.
“It is distressing that racist incidents are continuing to occur in our game. Racist and discriminatory behaviour towards any player, official, staff member or supporter is completely unacceptable, and has no place in football or our wider society.”
In a separate statement, Walsall confirmed they had also been made aware of the comment and had opened their own separate investigation.
The League 2 side, “Walsall Football Club are aware of an alleged racist comment directed towards a Milton Keynes Dons player during the first half of Tuesday night’s Papa John’s Trophy tie at the Poundland Bescot Stadium.
“The Club are appalled to learn of this incident and we are working closely with MK Dons and West Midlands Police on this matter.
“We are investigating this matter and we encourage anyone with information that could help identify the individual/individuals to come forward to Walsall Football Club or West Midlands Police.
“Racist and discriminatory behaviour towards any player, official, staff member or supporter is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated at the Poundland Bescot Stadium.”
If you see any discriminatory behaviour during a match at the Poundland Bescot Stadium, please text 07585 858 030 with details of the incident and location in the stadium to report it as soon as possible.