Police investigating 'unacceptable' abuse of Rangers players on social media

An investigation is under way after Rangers players Emmanuel Fernandez and Djeidi Gassama were racially abused on social media.

Centre-half Fernandez and winger Gassama were both targeted following the Glasgow club’s 2-2 draw against bottom-of-the-table Livingston on Sunday.

Rangers described the comments posted on Instagram as “simply unacceptable” and said the platform has a “responsibility” to take action.

The club has also reported the comments to Police Scotland and Meta, Instagram’s parent company.

A Rangers statement read: “We are in direct contact with Djeidi and Manny and have offered our full support both now and through any future judicial process.

“We are proud that they stood up for themselves by highlighting this vile abuse last night.

“Manny and Djeidi represent Rangers with commitment and pride. Every time they step onto the pitch, they do so on behalf of this club and our fans.

“Many supporters have already reached out with messages of support. We welcome that backing. It reflects what this club stands for: pride in the shirt, respect for those who wear it, and a commitment to stand together.”

Police Scotland has confirmed they are investigating the incident.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of offensive posts online and enquiries are at an early stage.”

Recent allegations of racist abuse in football

The comments made under both players’ social media posts are the latest racist incident to take place in football.

Last month, Livingston striker Jeremy Bokila claimed that he suffered racist abuse during their loss against Aberdeen.

The 37-year-old striker has met the SFA’s lawyers to discuss the incident, which the implicated Dons player denies.

In England, police are investigating online racist abuse directed towards four Premier League players including Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana.

UEFA has banned Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni provisionally following an alleged racist incident involving Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior during last Tuesday’s fixture.

Vinicius made the allegation during Real’s 1-0 win in Lisbon.

The Brazilian left the field and refused to return resulting in a stoppage in play that lasted ten minutes. Prestianni will miss the return leg on Wednesday.

UEFA has confirmed further punishment could be handed out following an investigation.