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Fulham and the Premier League have strongly condemned the racist and homophobic abuse directed at defender Calvin Bassey following his performance in Sunday's FA Cup match against Manchester United. The Nigerian international scored the opening goal at Old Trafford, with the game ending 1-1 before Fulham secured their place in the quarter-finals through a penalty shootout.
In a statement released on Monday, Fulham expressed their outrage at the discriminatory messages Bassey received on social media. "Fulham Football Club is utterly appalled at the racist and homophobic abuse directed at Calvin Bassey following our FA Cup tie against Manchester United. Such behavior has no place in football or society," the club stated. "We stand firmly with Calvin and will provide him with our full support while working with the relevant authorities to identify and take strong action against the perpetrators."
The Premier League also issued a statement, reaffirming its commitment to tackling discrimination in football. "We are appalled by the abuse directed at Calvin Bassey and offer our full support to him and Fulham. We continue to work with social media companies and relevant authorities to ensure those responsible for such hateful behavior face the strongest possible consequences."
Bassey’s case adds to a concerning pattern of discrimination in football. In recent months, other players, including England’s Kyle Walker, Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw, have been subjected to racist abuse. Shaw even missed a match for mental health reasons after facing online hate following a Women's Super League defeat to Arsenal.
Fulham reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on discrimination, emphasizing their commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment within the sport. The club and footballing authorities continue to push for stronger measures against online abuse to protect players and uphold the integrity of the game.
Bassey’s goal against United was equalized in the second half by Bruno Fernandes, forcing the match into extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout. Fulham triumphed after Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee missed their penalties for United, setting up a quarter-final clash with Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @cbasseyy, Pixababy / jorono
