Man City supporting Semenyo after further racist abuse

Manchester City are understood to be offering Antoine Semenyo support after the forward highlighted further racial abuse he has received this season. 

The 26-year-old posted on his Instagram story earlier this week saying "It's started again" with a screenshot of a comment sent to him.

In the opening match of the season against Liverpool, while playing for former side Bournemouth, Semenyo reported being racially abused by a supporter with referee Anthony Taylor stopping play. The Ghana international scored twice in a 4-2 defeat.

Mark Mogan, 47, was arrested and charged by Merseyside Police with a racially aggravated section five public order offence, which he denied at Liverpool Magistrates' Court in December. A trial is scheduled to take place on April 22.

A Premier League spokesperson said of the latest incident: "We are appalled at the unacceptable online racist abuse targeted at Antoine Semenyo and have offered our support to the player and club.

"Racism has no place in our game or anywhere in society. It is clear that more needs to be done to address this issue and we will work alongside clubs, football bodies, law enforcement and social media companies to ensure this remains a priority for all.

"Any individuals identified and found guilty of discrimination will face the strongest possible consequences, including custodial sentences, football banning orders and criminal records."

The FA added in a statement: "We are appalled at the unacceptable online racist abuse targeted at Antoine Semenyo and have offered out support to the player and club. Racism has not place in our game or anywhere in society.

"It is clear that more needs to be done to address this issue and we will work alongside clubs, football bodies, law enforcement and social media companies to ensure this remains a priority for all.

"Any individuals identified and found guilty of discrimination will face the strongest possible consequences, including custodial sentences, football banning orders and criminal records."

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