WANDERERS have warned that they will take a “zero tolerance” approach to those who send abusive messages to club staff on social media.

A malicious post sent on Friday night mentioning first team manager Ian Evatt is now the matter of a police investigation.

Such communications in football can often lead to stadium bans, and in wider contexts, fines, or in severe circumstances, prison sentences.

Wanderers issued a statement on their official site on Sunday morning to confirm their stance.

“Bolton Wanderers Football Club unequivocally condemns the recent post directed at our X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday evening,” it read.

“The content of this post is utterly reprehensible.

“The club has a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviour.

“This matter has been reported to Greater Manchester Police and the club will fully cooperate with any ensuing investigation.

“Bolton Wanderers Football Club is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all employees and our supporters, and will take all necessary measures to protect them from harm.”

Wanderers are also understood to be working with Exeter City Football Club to ascertain the details of an incident in Saturday’s 2-1 win at St James Park.

The game was briefly stopped by referee Ben Speedie after a report of racist language aimed towards Exeter striker Josh Magennis, who also represented Bolton earlier in his career.

Home manager Gary Caldwell confirmed that his club would offer support to Northern Ireland international Magennis and further communications are expected later in the week.