Fulham condemn 'abhorrent behaviour' in strongly-worded club statement after win over Man Utd
Fulham have released a strongly-worded statement condemning “racist and homophobic abuse” received by a player following the Cottagers’ FA Cup victory against Manchester United on Sunday.
Marco Silva’s side progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup after a 4-3 penalty shootout victory against United.
The match ended 1-1 after extra-time with Calvin Bassey putting Fulham ahead on 46 minutes before Bruno Fernandes equalised for United with 19 minutes left to play.
Advert
After the match, Bassey, 25, received abuse on social media, which prompted Fulham to release a statement on Monday, which read: “Fulham Football Club is utterly appalled at the racist and homophobic abuse received and subsequently shared by Calvin Bassey on social media after yesterday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United.
“We strongly condemn this abhorrent behaviour, which has no place in football or society. Such actions are entirely unacceptable, and we stand in full support of Calvin Bassey, who will continue to receive our full backing.
“We will do everything in our power to work with the relevant authorities in identifying the perpetrators of these vile messages and taking the strongest form of action against them.
“Fulham Football Club is committed to maintaining a firm stance against all forms of discrimination and remains dedicated to fostering an environment of respect and inclusion.”
Bassey, an Italy-born Nigeria international, has been a stalwart in Fulham's side this season, as he has formed a solid partnership with Joachim Andersen at the heart of his team's defence.
Fulham will face Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals with the match scheduled for March 29 at Craven Cottage.
After Fulham progressed at Old Trafford, Silva gave his thoughts in a press conference.
“It was our goal, definitely,” Silva said. “We wanted to be in the next stage, we wanted to play in the Quarter-Finals. And I really believe, and it's my feeling, that we deserve to be there.
“We knew that the way Man United is going to play, it's not easy to come here and to take the control of the game, knowing that they love the open space to counter-attack."
Luke Davies