Birmingham goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has been left “shaken” after reporting an alleged racist incident in Saturday’s FA Cup tie towards Blackburn Rovers.
Etheridge reported an “incident of racism” to referee Keith Stroud after Jordan James grabbed a late equalizer for Birmingham throughout stoppage time of their 2-2 draw with Blackburn at Ewood Park.
Sky Sports activities Information understands the alleged abuse got here from a supporter behind Etheridge’s aim.
Birmingham boss John Eustace mentioned Etheridge was visibly upset
Stroud delayed the restart and spoke to the pinnacle coaches, with Birmingham boss John Eustace revealing how the Philippines worldwide goalkeeper was visibly upset after the tie.
“Neil was racially abused, which is flawed,” Eustace mentioned.
“There isn’t a place for any racism in society, not to mention in soccer. We’re actually dissatisfied that it occurred. As a soccer membership we don’t settle for it in any respect and we’re absolutely behind it.
“The referee will report and additional motion shall be taken from there. It’s a very, very significant issue.
“Neil was a bit rattled after the sport, rightly so. The fellows surrounded him and made positive he was okay and we’ll speak to him after we get on the bus and see how he’s.
“The referee will report first and it is going to be as much as Blackburn as a membership to cope with the scenario.”
The FA Cup match resulted in a 2-2 draw at Ewood Park
Blackburn launched a membership assertion which learn: “Blackburn Rovers are conscious of allegations of racist abuse reported to match officers by Birmingham Metropolis goalkeeper Neil Etheridge throughout at this time’s FA Cup Fourth Spherical match at Ewood Park .
“Referee Keith Stroud has notified the gamers and managers of each golf equipment of the alleged incident, which can now be absolutely investigated by Blackburn Rovers and the related authorities.
“Allegations of this nature are taken extraordinarily critically.
“The membership has a zero tolerance coverage for all types of abuse and discrimination and can take the strongest attainable motion towards anybody recognized as having dedicated such offences.”
Birmingham additionally launched an announcement which learn: “The membership can affirm that within the second half of Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup match towards Blackburn Rovers, after the fourth aim of the sport, Neil Etheridge reported an incident of racism to the referee .
“This shall be included within the referee’s match report and the membership will help the FA and the authorities accordingly.
“The Blues give Neil their full assist. There isn’t a room for racism within the sport.
“No additional remark shall be made right now.”
An FA spokesman mentioned: “We’re conscious of an alleged incident of racial abuse which was reported to the match official through the Emirates FA Cup match between Blackburn Rovers FC and Birmingham Metropolis FC.
“We take all allegations of discrimination extraordinarily critically and can examine as a matter of urgency, working with the related golf equipment and authorities.”
Sky Sports activities Information has contacted Lancashire Police for remark.
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