Anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out has warned players should think twice before taking penalties in future after Tottenham's Mathis Thel was the target of racist abuse online.
France Under-21 international Theil is the latest to face abuse on social media after missing a penalty in his team's UEFA Super League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Premier League club lost the shoot-out 4-3 after throwing away a 2-0 lead in Italy to draw 2-2 after 90 minutes.
Tottenham expressed “disgust” at the abuse directed at Tell, while Kick It Out stressed that social media companies were still not doing enough to combat racism online.
In a statement, Kick It Out said: “If you're a black player, it's hard not to think, 'Why should I take penalties?' That's the reality of the game at the moment and, unfortunately, it's not new.
“Players regularly experience racism online and demand action; we want action too.
“Accountability for violations by offenders and social media owners is a basic requirement, but it is not being met.
“Football bodies, authorities and regulator Ofcom must work together to accelerate the development of a plan that will better protect players.
“Their well-being must always come first, and we stand with Matis Tell and everyone affected by this ongoing racist violence.”
Tottenham, who initially signed Thel on loan from Bayern in January before making his move permanent in June for £30m, said the player had shown “courage and courage in taking the penalty”.
The club said in a statement: “We are outraged by the racist abuse Matis Tel has received on social media following yesterday's defeat in the UEFA Super Cup.
“Mathis showed courage and bravery by taking the penalty, but those who insult him are just cowards hiding behind anonymous users and profiles to pour out their disgusting views.
We will work with the authorities and social media to take the strictest measures against anyone identified. We support you, Matis.
Tottenham led 2-0 until the 85th minute at the Bluenergy stadium in Udine thanks to goals from Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, but goals from Lee Kang-in and Goncalo Ramos levelled the scores late on.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
