David Moyes condemns West Ham fans for antisemitic abuse towards Jewish man on plane
A video emerged on social media on Thursday appearing to show some Hammers fans on a flight to Belgium singing the offensive song at another passenger; "I'm really disappointed to hear about it," said David Moyes. "I'm sure it's only individuals and not a big section of supporters"
Saturday 6 November 2021 12:51, UK
West Ham boss David Moyes has condemned footage of the club's fans apparently singing an antisemitic song towards a Jewish man on a plane.
A video emerged on social media on Thursday, appearing to show some Hammers supporters on a flight to Belgium singing the offensive song as the man walks down the aisle to take his seat.
The fans on the flight were on their way to watch West Ham play Belgian side Genk in a Europa League tie.
The chant they can be heard singing is typically aimed at rivals Tottenham as an insult and reference to the Jewish ownership of the club.
Moyes, who marked his 1,000th game as a manager with a 2-2 draw at Genk to seal the Hammers' qualification from the group stage of the Europa League, joined his club in criticising the behaviour on the flight.
"I have to say first of all that I don't see our football club being like that. We are a diverse football club. There's no room for discrimination anywhere," said Moyes.
"I'm really disappointed to hear about it. I'm sure it's only individuals and not a big section of supporters. I'm just sorry to hear about it.
"I want this football club to be recognised for having a really good football team. I want this football club to be recognised as being a great club in London and well respected.
"We have incredible supporters who follow us home and away, but I don't want any labels connected to this whatsoever - discrimination or racism, none at all. We don't want to be associated with supporters like this. I want us to fully move on from this."
West Ham 'appalled' by video of antisemitic song
The club condemned the video on Thursday night and vowed to punish any supporters identified with an indefinite ban.
A West Ham spokesperson said: "West Ham United is appalled by the contents of the video circulating on social media and condemn the behaviour of the individuals involved.
"The club is liaising with the airline and relevant authorities to identify the individuals.
"We continue to be unequivocal in our stance - we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination. Any individuals identified will be issued with an indefinite ban from the club.
"Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the football club and we do not welcome any individuals who do not share those values."
Kick It Out reporting racism
Online Reporting Form | Kick It Out
Kick It Out is football's equality and inclusion organisation - working throughout the football, educational and community sectors to challenge discrimination, encourage inclusive practices and campaign for positive change.
