Police have launched an investigation after a man was sent off from Anfield following reports of racist abuse the Bournemouth player received during the opening game of the Premier League season against Liverpool.
Striker Antoine Semenyo reported racist abuse from a spectator and referee Anthony Taylor suspended play in the 29th minute.
He discussed the situation with managers Arne Sloot and Andoni Iraola, after which captains Virgil van Dijk and Adam Smith were called to the box.
An anti-discrimination message was played to the Anfield crowd and police were reported to have entered the referee's room during the break.
Merseyside Police said a 47-year-old man had been arrested and investigations were underway after his identity was confirmed.
Chief Inspector Kev Chatterton, in charge of the Liverpool v Bournemouth match, said: “Merseyside Police will not tolerate hate crime in any form.”
“We take incidents like this very seriously and in such cases we will actively seek a ban from football activity from the club for those responsible.”
He added: “There is no place for racism here and it is vital that anyone who witnesses such offences reports it to stewards or the police immediately so that we can take the necessary action, as we have done this evening.”
“As with all matches, we are working closely with Liverpool and Everton to ensure the safety of spectators and players.”
A Liverpool Football Club spokesman said: “Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racial abuse made during our Premier League match against Bournemouth.
“We condemn racism and discrimination in all their forms; these phenomena have no place in society or in football.”
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
