Fulham FC has come out in strong support of defender Calvin Bassey after he was subjected to vile racist and homophobic abuse online following his goal in their dramatic FA Cup win over Manchester United. The Nigeria international put Fulham ahead in the first half of Sunday’s match, which ended 1-1 at Old Trafford before the London side triumphed in a penalty shootout, securing their spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
The club released a statement condemning the abuse, expressing their outrage at the hateful messages shared with Bassey on social media. “Fulham Football Club is utterly appalled at the racist and homophobic abuse received and subsequently shared by Calvin Bassey after Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United,” the statement read.
“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 to identify the perpetrators of these vile messages and take the strongest possible action against them.”
This incident follows a worrying trend of online abuse faced by footballers, with Manchester City’s Kyle Walker also targeted after a loss to Juventus in the Champions League in December. Earlier this year, City’s Khadija Shaw missed a Women’s Super League match due to the mental toll of racist abuse following a defeat to Arsenal.
Fulham further stressed their commitment to combating discrimination in all forms, stating, “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.”
Looking ahead, Fulham will face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 29, continuing their quest for silverware amid a strong showing in the competition.
