Ipswich Town and the Premier League are investigating racist abuse directed at Abdul Fatawu online followingEverton’s 1-0 victory at the Hill Dickinson on Saturday.
The 22-year-old – a summer target for the Toffees – was sent off during the second half after receiving two yellow cards, the second for simulation, as Thierno Barry’s early goal earned David Moyes’ side another Premier League victory.
Ipswich subsequently confirmed that Fatawu had been subjected to racist abuse on social media and said they were working with the Premier League and relevant authorities to investigate what had happened.
Ipswich condemn racist abuse of Fatawu
Ipswich described discriminatory behaviour as “completely unacceptable” and said it had no place in football.
The club added: “We are investigating this incident alongside the Premier League and the relevant authorities. We will continue to offer Abdul our full support.”
The Premier League also issued a statement in support of Fatawu and Ipswich, condemning the abuse and confirming that it would continue working with clubs, authorities, law enforcement and social media companies.
Ipswich supporters’ group Reach Tractors, which celebrates race, ethnicity and cultural heritage within the club’s fanbase, also condemned the abuse and called for those responsible to be held accountable.
Fatawu joined Ipswich from Leicester City for £20m in July and signed a five-year contract running until 2031. The Ghana international has made five Premier League appearances for the newly-promoted club this season.
Fatawu sent off against Everton
Fatawu had already been booked during the first half of Saturday’s game before referee Stuart Attwell showed him a second yellow card for simulation in the 67th minute.
Ipswich were consequently reduced to ten men with Everton leading 1-0, although the visitors continued to threaten during the closing stages.
Our Everton and Ipswich match line-ups show how both teams started the game, while Moyes’ post-match reaction covers the Everton manager’s assessment of the victory.
The afternoon also featured another lengthy VAR controversy after Barry had a second goal disallowed because Brennan Johnson was adjudged to have interfered with goalkeeper Christian Walton from an offside position. We looked more closely at the VAR decisions against Ipswich following the game.
The investigation into the racist abuse directed at Fatawu is now continuing, with Ipswich pledging their full support to the player.
The BBC report on the investigation carries further details.
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