Alleged racial abuse was hurled at SAFC defender Lutsharel Geertruida during Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby
Referee Anthony Taylor speaks with staff of both sides during a pause in play as Lutsharel Geertruida of Sunderland looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Sunderland at St James' Park
Referee Anthony Taylor speaks with staff of both sides during a pause in play as Lutsharel Geertruida of Sunderland looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Sunderland at St James' Park(Image: Getty Images)
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Police are yet to make an arrest after a Sunderland footballer was allegedly racially abused during the Tyne-Wear derby. Sunderland completed the double over arch rivals Newcastle United on Sunday with a 2-1 win that sent the travelling Wearsiders wild.
But the occasion was marred by an incident which occurred in the 50th minute when referee Anthony Taylor called both captains - Kieran Trippier and Granit Xhaka - over to the dugout to discuss a matter with the two benches. Newcastle's Sven Botman had gone down with a head injury before Xhaka brought it to the attention of Taylor. It was alleged that racial abuse had been hurled at SAFC defender Lutsharel Geertruida.
A spokesperson for Newcastle United 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.”
On Monday, Northumbria Police said that no arrests have been made in connection with the report, but inquiries are at an early stage. A statement from Sunderland Football Club 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."
Newcastle United have vowed to track down those responsible for any alleged discriminatory abuse aimed at Geertruida. A social media post from the Premier League Match Centre also confirmed that the incident will be investigated.
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