Dundee United and Hibs say 'derogatory shout' at Tannadice came from away end

Dundee United and Hibernian have agreed that a “derogatory” shout during their midweek Premiership clash that was initially believed to be racist in nature originated from the end of Tannadice housing the away fans.

United won Tuesday night’s game 1-0 in Tayside but the result was overshadowed by a video appearing to confirm the abuse.

Both clubs confirmed that they were investigating the incident on Wednesday and have now released statements with updates on their findings.

They agree that the shout came from the Hibs end but they also both said that it is now believed it was “derogatory rather than racial” following the investigation with both clubs and broadcaster.

Dundee United said they are “pleased” to rectify the “unfair representation” of their supporters as they reiterate their anti-racism and verbal abuse policy.

The statement released on Thursday said: “The investigation, completed in conjunction with our counterparts at Hibs and the host broadcasters, included intensive discussions with other stakeholders, focused mainly on the context of the incident.

“During the course of the investigation, we utilised every available video angle and accompanying audio in an attempt to conclusively prove both where the shout emitted from, and also what phrase was shouted.

“Following feedback from the host broadcaster and analysis of the audio mics available, both clubs unequivocally accept that the shout came from the stand housing the away fans.

“While there is no conclusive proof to confirm the words used by the offender, all parties are in agreement, based on the evidence available, that the likelihood is the comment was derogatory rather than racial.

“In no way does this make the abuse acceptable, but it is clear that the initial media clip and reaction by parties after that offered an unreliable and skewed representation of the incident.

“As a club, we are pleased that the unfair representation of our supporters has been rectified. We hope that our calm and concise investigation will end a disappointing experience for our supporters who should have been celebrating victory on the park.

“Dundee United FC offers our continued assistance to Hibernian FC should they wish to attempt to identify the individual responsible for the comment.

“Finally, and importantly, we would like to reiterate our policy as a club regarding racism amongst all forms of derogatory abuse – it is not welcome at Tannadice Park. We do not welcome racists to Tannadice Park.”

The Edinburgh side released a similar message confirming the results of the investigation and said if the offender is identified they will “face the strongest action”.

Their statement continued: “With the permission of the SPFL, both clubs are happy to share footage which gives better context to the situation.

“Hibernian FC will continue to investigate the matter with Dundee United, the host broadcaster, and other stakeholders, to ensure that the correct outcome is reached. If an individual is identified, then the person will face the strongest action from the Club.

“As a club, Hibernian FC has a zero-tolerance position on all kinds discriminatory and derogatory abuse and finds that behaviour completely abhorrent. It has no place at Hibs, in the game or in wider society.

“Hibernian FC is proud to have players, staff, and supporters from a number of different backgrounds and cultures, and will continue to work alongside all other clubs up and down the county to ensure that all forms of discrimination are kicked out of the game.

“Everyone at Hibernian FC would also like to thank Dundee United, the SPFL, the host broadcaster, and other stakeholders, for acting so quickly on this matter and for the thorough investigation so far.”