Glentoran call for 'strongest possible punishments' over Fuad Sule racism claims

Glentoran have called for the "strongest possible punishments" after midfielder Fuad Sule claimed he was racially abused at the end of Friday night's derby against Linfield.

Sule says he was subjected to abuse from a spectator as he left the pitch following the Glens' 3-1 victory at Windsor Park.

Linfield have launched an investigation into the matter, while Glentoran say they are "deeply concerned" by the alleged abuse.

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The East Belfast club said in a statement: "Glentoran Football Club strongly condemns racism and all forms of discrimination. We are deeply concerned by the alleged racial abuse directed at our player Fuad Sule during last night’s match against Linfield at the National Stadium.

"There is no place for such behaviour in football, and we will fully support Fuad and any of our players or staff members affected by this incident. No one should have to endure racism or abuse, and we will ensure that Fuad and our team have all the necessary resources and backing as we move forward from this unacceptable situation.

"We appreciate the prompt and strong statement from Linfield Football Club and will work closely with them as they conduct their investigation, assisting in any way necessary to ensure that the individual responsible is held to account.

"We urge the football authorities to impose the strongest possible punishments on anyone found guilty of such actions. Glentoran Football Club will continue to do everything we can to stamp out discrimination from the game and ensure that football remains an inclusive space for everyone."

Former Larne midfielder Sule said on social media: "First of all, great win last night and great effort shown by the lads. I’m very much aware of the rivalry between Linfield and Glentoran and how emotions are high in a Big Two game for players and also for fans, it means a lot to people,” Sule said.

“I personally don’t mind taking abuse, being booed or anything to put me off my game, it’s part and parcel. What I won’t stand for is being called a “black b******” and monkey sounds being made at me as I walked off the pitch, because of three points – really?

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“I’m a big ambassador of kicking racism not only out of football but out of life in general. It’s embarrassing that it still happens today. A good game with an electric atmosphere has turned sour and these Linfield fans also have previous racial claims against them.

“There’s a lot of good, honest people that I know very well at Linfield with integrity and class but one individual has tarnished the whole Linfield Football Club’s name for me. Do better – it’s only a kick-about and I’m so proud to be black.”

Linfield said the club is "opposed to all forms of racism" and added they were taking the matter "with the utmost seriousness".

The Blues added in a statement: “Linfield Football Club is aware of an incident which occurred at the end of last night's match with Glentoran in which an individual was alleged to have racially abused an opposition player.

"An individual was removed from the ground last night and the club will investigate further.

“Linfield Football Club is opposed to all forms of racism and we will treat the matter with the utmost seriousness.”

A statement from the Northern Ireland Football League said: "We will review the Match Observer's report from last night's game and take the appropriate action necessary.

"There is no place for racism within the NI Football League."

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