Liverpool defender Rhys Williams subjected to alleged racial abuse as police launch investigation

Liverpool defender Rhys Williams subjected to alleged racial abuse as police launch investigation

Liverpool Echo Sports·2021-09-20 14:00

Liverpool defender Rhys Williams has been the target of alleged racial abuse while representing Swansea City this afternoon.The 20-year-old left the Reds on loan during the summer transfer window to join the Championship side, having agreed a new long-term contract at Anfield prior to his season-long switch.An incident is said to have occurred during today's 3-3 draw at Luton, with an official investigation now underway. READ MORE: Liverpool player ratings: Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah good vs Crystal PalaceSwansea have confirmed they are currently in dialogue with Liverpool to ensure Williams has the support he requires at this time and are working with the relevant authorities on this matter. A club statement said: "Towards the end of todays Championship fixture against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road, an allegation of racial abuse was made over comments made towards Swansea Citys Rhys Williams from a home spectator. "An official report was filed with the match official, Tony Harrington, and Bedfordshire Police at full-time."Swansea City condemns racism and abuse of all kinds because it has no place within football or any walk of life."The club would like to place on record its thanks to both Bedfordshire Police and Luton Town Football Club for their swift response at the end of the game."Bedfordshire Police has launched a full investigation into the incident. Officers have been to the ground to carry out enquiries and are working with Luton Town to identify the people involved."Rhys has the full backing of everyone at the football club and we are in dialogue with his parent club Liverpool with regards to ensuring the player has all the support he needs."Swansea City will continue to work with the relevant authorities on this matter."Luton have since responded to news of this allegation with their own statement. It said: "Luton Town abhors racism and with our stadium situated in one of the most racially and culturally diverse areas of the country, we are proud of our historical record in fighting it."The Club has, and always will have, a zero tolerance policy on discrimination of any kind. It is not acceptable towards anyone in football or wider society, either online or in person, and we will continue to work with the Police with their enquiries in this matter. We are also offering Rhys and Swansea our full support."Any person found to have made discriminatory comments will have the strictest sanctions imposed by the Club, and will not be welcome back at Kenilworth Road."Liverpool, meanwhile, sent the following message of support to Williams on Twitter: "We're with you, @rhyswilliams01. #RedTogether"Read MoreRelated ArticlesRead MoreRelated Articles

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