January 6 – Newcastle United have contacted the police after midfielder Joe Willock was subjected to racial abuse and threats on social media.
It marred a routine 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday, with Newcastle describing the abuse, which came from an anonymous Instagram account, as “disgusting”.
Willock came on as a substitute in the match and missed a late chance. He later posted screenshots of the abuse.
“We are disgusted by racist abuse received by Joe Willock on Instagram on Sunday evening,” the club said. “Following our win over Crystal Palace, Joe received several direct messages from an Instagram account that included racial slurs and deeply disturbing threats of violence towards Joe and his family.”
Willock’s response was calm and dignified. He said: “I pray you and your family find God. And may him have mercy on you.”
Less than a year ago, Willock was racially abused online following a defeat by Fulham.
Newcastle called on Instagram owner Meta to assist the police in their enquiries. “We urge Meta to give the police all the information they need to identify the perpetrator, and to do so quickly,” the club said.
Northumbria Police, who have launched an investigation alongside the UK Football Policing Unit, said: “We condemn all forms of discrimination – it has no place in society and our communities.”
Football keeps saying zero tolerance. Online, too often, that promise rings hollow. One wonders if Mark Zuckerberg, Chairman and CEO of Meta Platforms, is listening?