Phil SumblerIt’s another thoroughly depressing state of affairs when we read last night that on loan Liverpool defender Rhys Williams was the subject of racial abuse during yesterday’s 3-3 draw with Luton and a report has been filed with Bedfordshire Police.
Williams becomes the latest in an increasing number of incidents involving Swansea players that has included Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Morgan Whittaker whilst there were similar incidents yesterday with two Birmingham fans arrested following an alleged comment made to Peterborough captain Nathan Thompson and in Scotland Kelty Hearts striker Nathan Austin alleged he was racially abused in his side’s League 2 win at Albion Rovers.
Williams, who was substituted at half time yesterday, was on the end of the comments towards the end of the game as the Swans fought back from a 3-0 half time deficit to draw 3-3 with the club statement reading:
“Towards the end of today’s Championship fixture against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road, an allegation of racial abuse was made over comments made towards Swansea City’s 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.”
Luton’s own club statement read “Luton Town Football Club is aware of an allegation made of a racist comment aimed at Swansea City defender Rhys Williams by a spectator during today’s game at Kenilworth Road.
“The allegation is currently being investigated by Club officials, in co-operation with Swansea City and Bedfordshire Police.
“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.”
