Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida was allegedly racially abused during Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United
Lutsharel Geertruida reacts
Lutsharel Geertruida was allegedly racially abused at Newcastle on Sunday (Image: Getty Images)
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Sunderland have released a statement over alleged racial abuse suffered by defender Lutsharel Geertruida during Sunday's 2-1 win at Newcastle United. The alleged incident occurred during the second half at St James' Park.
Referee Anthony Taylor briefly paused the Tyne-Wear derby and spoke to both managers and club officials. Taylor had been approached by Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka in the 52nd minute, when the game was already stopped due to an injury to Newcastle's Sven Botman.
He spoke to both sets of coaches, Xhaka and Geertruida, before restarting the game. Sunderland have now released a statement over the alleged incident.
It said: "Sunderland AFC is aware of the reported incident of racist abuse directed at Lutsharel Geertruida during today’s fixture at St. James’ Park. We stand with Lutsharel, who has our complete backing, and we commend him for displaying bravery and leadership by reporting this incident to the match officials.
"Racism is completely unacceptable. It is abhorrent, and has no place in our game or in society. We acknowledge Newcastle United’s statement and expect those responsible to be identified and held accountable.
"There can be no tolerance, no excuses, and no ambiguity when it comes to incidents of this nature. Football must be a safe and inclusive environment for everyone - without exception - and we will continue to work with the relevant authorities to support that aim."
Meanwhile, Newcastle have vowed to track down those responsible for any alleged discriminatory abuse aimed at Geertruida.
The club said: "We are aware of a report of racism made by a visiting player against someone in the crowd during our Premier League match against Sunderland.
"Our stance is clear - we do not tolerate discrimination of any form. We will work with the authorities to fully investigate and will ensure any individuals are identified and held accountable."
A social media post from the Premier League Match Centre also confirmed that the incident will be investigated.
They said: "The incident at St James' Park will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs.
"Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are an inclusive and welcoming environment for all."
Newcastle were leading 1-0 at the time of the incident through Anthony Gordon's first-half goal. However, it was Sunderland who came back to win 2-1 with goals from Chemsdine Talbi and Brian Brobbey.