Tamworth’s Chris Wreh refuses to play and criticises club for no action on racist abuse
Tamworth’s Chris Wreh refused to play in a midweek match after accusing the club of a lack of support following the racist abuse he received after their FA Cup defeat by Tottenham.
Wreh posted an image on social media showing a person racially abusing him and blaming him for losing a bet on the match, in which the part-time side took Tottenham to extra time.
The 28-year-old – the son of former Arsenal striker Christopher Wreh – said he was supported by Tamworth manager Andy Peaks, as well as the club’s fans, and that he had been contacted by police.
But he said he was “disappointed” not to receive public backing from the club and as a result, declined to play in Tamworth’s Birmingham Senior Cup match against St Michaels on Tuesday.
“Incidents like this highlight the ongoing issue of racism,” Wreh wrote on X and Instagram. “It is shameful to be racially abused by someone simply because they lost a bet, but sadly this happens all too often.
“While I have the utmost respect for my manager, who has supported me throughout this issue, I am disappointed that the club has not publicly supported me yet, which has left me feeling confused and disappointed.
“At no point was I asked if I was OK, instead I was informed that the silence was due to a desire to keep the matter internal. I cannot agree with or condone this approach.
“If these incidents are kept ‘in-house’, they will never be addressed. I hope everyone understands my reasons for speaking out.”
Postecoglou targeted
Tottenham were held to a 0-0 draw in normal time before prevailing 3-0 after 120 minutes. Manager Ange Postecoglou said he was targeted by ‘vile’ taunts.
“Ninety per cent of the crowd were very good and enjoyed the banter. There was 10 per cent who were pretty unacceptable,” said Postecoglou.
“The stuff I heard was pretty vile and detestable, and getting things thrown at me, not a great experience, but we’re expected to be the bigger person.
“I would have loved to have turned around and not be the bigger person in that moment, but you deal with it and go on.”
