Fans call out Milutin Osmajic's 'grim' celebration against Burnley amid alleged racism row

Fans have been reacting on social media after Milutin Osmajic was spotted gesturing to Burnley fans on the back of scoring for Preston North End.

The FA Cup is taking centre stage this weekend as fifth round ties are being played around the country.

On Saturday afternoon, Championship sides Preston and Burnley locked horns at Deepdale.

Prior to the match, the headlines were dominated by Osmajic after Burnley man Hannibal Mejbri made a racism allegation against the Preston man during their meeting last month.

Both Burnley and Hannibal issued statements, leading to an FA investigation which hasn't yet concluded - meaning Osmajic was free to play in the FA Cup clash on Saturday.

Prior to kick-off, Burnley players refused to shake hands with Osmajic. The Montenegrin offered his hand but was blanked by his opponents.

Robbie Brady gave Preston the lead after 31 minutes before Osmajic made it 2-0 with 44 minutes on the clock.

After scoring, Osmajic was seen gesturing to the travelling fans as he cupped his ears in their direction. You can watch the footage below.

Milutin Osmajic gestures towards the Burnley fans as he doubles Preston's lead.

The goalscorer has been accused of racially abusing Hannibal Mejbri who was left out of Scott Parker's squad.#FACup pic.twitter.com/Nl1QFxo9U1

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) March 1, 2025

Reacting on social media, fans were less than impressed with the Preston player's actions.

One fan simply said: "Grim."

Another tweeted: "Classy…"

In response to the racist allegations from Hannibal, Preston stated that Osmajic "strongly refuted" claims of racial abuse. The investigation into the incident includes interviews with both players involves, as well as club staff and witnesses.

A statement from the club read: "Milutin Osmajić has strongly refuted the claims of a racist comment made towards Hannibal Mejbri in a post-match meeting with today’s match officials.

"The club would like to thank the match officials for the way they have handled the issue and will assist with the investigation until a conclusion has been found.

"In the meantime, the club feel it is unjust and inappropriate to post social media comments presuming guilt until there is the opportunity for a full investigation to take place. Preston North End utterly condemn any incidents of racism or discrimination wherever and whenever they occur, however Milutin Osmajić categorically denies the allegations made against him today. No further comment will be made at this time."