Anton Ferdinand led his teammates off of the pitch in an exhibition match against Dallas United on Thursday after an opposition player was reportedly accused of making a racist comment towards West Ham United's Frank Nouble.
The fixture at The Soccer Tournament in North Carolina was suspended after the incident with former Hammers defender Ferdinand, who was playing for West Ham in the exhibition tournament alongside Carlton Cole and Marlon Harewood, being heard saying: "I'm here to set a precedent" before leaving the pitch.
During the altercation, Ferdinand was also said to be heard threatening to 'punch up' a Dallas player before guiding his teammates off of the pitch.
Advert
The Englishman was involved in a high-profile racism case back in 2011 when an independent disciplinary panel found then-Chelsea defender John Terry guilty of racially abusing him during a Premier League match.
A West Ham statement read: “The players made a collective decision to walk off the pitch as a team in support of our player. As a club, everyone at West Ham United stands shoulder to shoulder in solidarity against all forms of discrimination and abuse.”
Dallas United have now left the lucrative seven-a-side tournament after their Friday fixture was cancelled, although it is unknown whether or not the American outfit were disqualified or left on their own accord.
Advert
The Soccer Tournament is a first-of-its-kind competition with unique formats made up of 32 teams from across the globe with Wrexham and Wolves also included as outfits battle to win a $1million prize.
“All parties involved are unified in wanting to make a statement against racial insensitivity," a statement from tournament organisers read.
“We seek to run an event that is not only fiercely high stakes for all competitors, but also one in which all competitors feel safe and protected.
“As a result, tomorrow’s (Friday) game between Dallas United and Far East United has been cancelled.”
Advert
Dallas have also launched their own internal investigation but refused to confirm or deny West Ham's allegations with a club statement reading: “In light of the shadow cast by an opposing player’s accusation during tonight’s match, the Dallas United players unanimously decided to withdraw from the remainder of the competition. Our coaches and staff fully support the team’s decision.
“We thank TST7v7 for the opportunity to compete in the tournament.”
Topics: West Ham United
Dan Hargraves