Liverpool Football Club has condemned the alleged racist abuse which was aimed at Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo during their opening Premier League clash at Anfield.
Cherries forward Semenyo alerted officials during the 28th minute, alleging that he had been racially abused by a supporter in the crowd. Referee Anthony Taylor called both managers in to discuss the incident while police officers stationed on the touchline were also made aware.
The match continued with Semenyo going on to score twice for Bournemouth as Liverpool snatched two late goals to win 4-2 on a night when late Reds forward Diogo Jota was remembered at Anfield. After the match, Liverpool issued the following statement: "Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against AFC Bournemouth.
"We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football. The club is unable to comment further as tonight’s alleged incident is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, which we will support fully."
Bournemouth captain Adam Smith spoke out and said the entire team was "shocked" and "angry" at the incident and called for sterner action to be taken.
"Totally unacceptable. Kind of in shock it happened in this day and age. I don't know how Ant has carried on playing and come up with his goals," Smith said to Sky Sports.
"He's a little bit down. Something needs to be done. Taking a knee has taken no effect. We've supported him and hopefully he'll be OK.
Referee Anthony Taylor informed both managers about the incident
Referee Anthony Taylor informed both managers about the incident (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
"I wanted him to react [after scoring], that's what I'd have done. I'd have gone straight over there. It shows what kind of man he is to report it to the ref and carry on. Fair play to Ant.
"It's more anger. Shocked. I said to the ref I wanted [the alleged culprit] removed immediately but the police went and sorted it. The Liverpool players were very supportive to Ant and the rest of the team. Just so angry.
"We've had discussions with the Premier League about it so they have been taking it seriously. I don't know what else we can do.
"We've been doing it for a long time now and no-one is getting it. I just feel sorry for Ant and he's had to take that. The whole country is watching and it's shocking."
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola said: "Straight away Antoine and the referee told us. The person has been identified. It is a big shame these things keep happening.
"First game of the season, a lovely game of football and I have to speak about these things happening. A big shame."
Liverpool boss Arne Slot said: "It is obvious we do not want this in football. We definitely don't want this at Anfield. Unfortunately it is part of the story because we should talk about the great tribute for Diogo Jota. This should never happen in football, let alone Anfield."