Northumbria Police are investigating the alleged racist gesture
Newcastle United have confirmed they are investigating an alleged racist gesture made by an individual towards Tottenham’s supporters during Sunday’s Premier League game at St James’ Park.
The club have said in a statement that they will support the Northumbira police in their investigation and any subsequent attempts to secure a criminal conviction for the person responsible.
“Our message is clear – football is for everyone,” the statement added. “Discrimination has absolutely no place in football, in the street, online or in wider society and we will not tolerate it under any circumstances.
“Newcastle United will pursue the strongest possible action against anyone involved in discriminatory behaviour and will support any efforts by the authorities to secure a criminal conviction.
“The club is adhering to the Premier League commitment regarding Abusive and Discriminatory conduct, which facilitates the banning of any fan found to have been involved in abusive and/or discriminatory conduct from all Premier League stadia.
“For this alleged incident to take place at a time when all Premier League clubs are visibly supporting the No Room For Racism campaign shows the work we all have ahead of us, to which we remain absolutely committed.
“If you see discrimination, challenge it, report it, change it. There is no place for abusive or discriminatory conduct anywhere in football; we are United as One.”
A Northumbria Police spokesperson added: “We can confirm we are investigating an alleged racist incident during Newcastle United’s home fixture with Tottenham at St James’ Park on Sunday.
“Enquiries are ongoing with the club to identify anyone involved and ascertain whether criminal offences have been committed.
“As a force, we do not tolerate hate crime of any kind within our communities and are committed to taking swift and robust action against perpetrators.”
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