Today’s derby clash between Newcastle United and Sunderland was temporarily paused after a report of “discriminatory abuse”, the Premier League has said.
The crowd abuse, during the second half, was reported to have been directed at Sunderland’s Lutsharel Geertruida, the league’s statement said.
It said the stoppage was “in line with the Premier League’s on-field anti-discrimination protocol” and the incident at St James’ Park in Newcastle would now be fully investigated.
Sunderland’s Granit Xhaka and Lutsharel Geertruida celebrate after the match. Pic: Action Images/Reuters
“We offer our full support to the player and both clubs,” the Premier League said. “Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society.
“We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
Read more: Sky Sports match report
There had been tense scenes between fans outside the stadium before the match, which Sunderland won 2-1 thanks to a late goal by Brian Brobbey.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe also commented on the incident post-match, telling Sky Sports: “Certainly, we don’t condone any form of racism and it’s something the club will investigate.”
A spokesperson at Newcastle United said: “We are aware of a report of racism made by a visiting player against someone in the crowd during our Premier League match against Sunderland.
“Our stance is clear – we do not tolerate discrimination of any form.
“We will work with the authorities to fully investigate and will ensure any individuals are identified and held accountable.”
A Sunderland fan before the match. Pic: Action Images/Reuters
Police keep fans apart before the match outside St James’ Park. Pic: Action Images/Reuters
Newcastle United fans are held back by officers. Pic: PA
In a statement, Sunderland said: “We stand with Lutsharel [Geertruida], who has our complete backing, and we commend him for displaying bravery and leadership by reporting this incident to the match officials.
“Racism is completely unacceptable. It is abhorrent, and has no place in our game or in society. We acknowledge Newcastle United’s statement and expect those responsible to be identified and held accountable.”
Posting on Instagram, Geertruida did not directly address the incident. Instead, he used red and white symbols within his message to write about the match: “Fair to say, Tyne and Wear is [red] [white]”.
Following the game, Chief Superintendent Mark Hall of Northumbria Police said the force was aware of videos showing opposing fans “goading one another ahead of kick-off” and three arrests were made.
He continued: “We also became aware of a report of discriminatory abuse, and as a Force we condemn all forms of discrimination and will always look to take swift and appropriate action against offenders.”
With respect to the game, the 2-1 win for Sunderland means they leapfrog Newcastle in the Premier League table.
It also sees them set a new record with 11 Premier League Tyne-Wear derbies unbeaten.