Tottenham have issued an angry response to the “vile, dehumanising racism” directed at defender Kevin Danso following Saturday’s 2–2 draw against Brighton.
The centre-back was caught on the ball in the build up to Georginio Rutter snatching a stoppage-time equaliser for the Seagulls in a thrilling game.
The result leaves Spurs in 18th place, currently mired in the Premier League relegation zone under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.
In an official club statement, Tottenham confirmed they have involved the Metropolitan Police to track down those responsible for the abuse, which occurred during the league’s “No Room For Racism” activation weekend.
The Club Statement
“Since yesterday’s fixture against Brighton, which took place during the Premier League’s No Room For Racism weekend, Kevin Danso has been, and continues to be, subject to significant and abhorrent racist abuse on social media.
“We have heard and seen vile, dehumanising racism. Behaviour that is without doubt a criminal offence. It will not be tolerated.
“The club is taking immediate action. We are reporting all identified content to the Metropolitan Police and to the appropriate authorities in the country where perpetrators reside, as well as to relevant social media platforms.
“We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify.
“Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this.
“Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse. There is no connection between performance on the pitch and the right to target a player with discrimination. Criticism of performances is part of the game. Racism is not.”
Spurs have reiterated that they are working with third-party specialists to monitor and investigate online abuse, warning that perpetrators could face custodial sentences and indefinite stadium bans.
