After scoring twice in Saturday's 5-2 win at Chelsea, a user posted monkey emojis in reply to a post that West Brom forward Callum Robinson made about the game on his profile; Albion say they are "appalled"; West Midlands Police confirm they are investigating
Wednesday 7 April 2021 09:42, UK
West Midlands Police are investigating after West Brom forward Callum Robinson was racially abused on Instagram.
After scoring twice in Saturday's 5-2 Premier League win at Chelsea, a user posted monkey emojis in reply to a post that Robinson made about the game on his profile.
Robinson screen-grabbed and highlighted the messages in an Instagram story and West Brom reported the abuse to police.
Following the match at Stamford Bridge, Albion said in a statement: "The club is appalled by the messages and will offer Callum the help and support he may require in response to the incident.
"Albion will continue to confront all forms of discrimination and will assist the authorities with their inquiries, seeking the toughest available legal punishment.
"It is deeply disturbing that scoring two goals in a football match can provoke a reaction of this kind. There is No Room For Racism. Anywhere. Challenge it, report it, change it."
On Wednesday, West Midlands Police said: "We're investigating after West Bromwich Albion player Callum Robinson was racially abused online.
"We serve everyone regardless of their race, sexual orientation, disability, faith, age or gender.
"We will never accept or tolerate social media attacks on anyone simply for being who they are.
"Like all hate crimes, we will investigate and pursue the offenders with vigour."
Facebook, which owns Instagram, has removed at least one account after racist abuse was sent to Robinson on the platform.
Facebook has also told Sky Sports News that it has removed a number of offensive comments and is continuing to investigate.
Chelsea also issued a statement following the game, reiterating they would take the "strongest possible action" against anyone found guilty of racist abuse.
"Chelsea FC is disgusted with posts on social media targeting West Bromwich Albion player Callum Robinson," a club statement read.
"Chelsea FC finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour totally unacceptable.
"Racism has no place at this club and where there is sufficient evidence of a Chelsea season ticket holder or member involved in such behaviour, we will take the strongest possible action against them."
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Naby Keita were racially abused on Instagram following Liverpool's Champions League defeat by Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
Monkey emojis were sent to Alexander-Arnold on a picture he posted on Easter Sunday, with Keita suffering similar abuse in response to a photo published prior to the loss in Madrid.
Facebook has told Sky Sports News it is investigating the issue.
On Tuesday, Brentford striker Ivan Toney was subjected to similar racist abuse on Instagram, the second time the player has received such comments.
The 25-year-old highlighted a private message sent to him after Brentford's goalless draw with Birmingham.
Facebook confirmed it has removed the account that sent the DM for breaking its rules.
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