A 21-year-old man was arrested during Accrington Stanley’s home match with Wigan Athletic on suspicion of racially abusing Ireland international James McClean on Saturday, police have confirmed
The incident occurred during the first half of Saturday’s League One match at the Wham Stadium, which ended 4-1 to the visitors.
It is understood Wigan’s left winger suffered anti-Irish abuse as he went to take a corner at the Clayton Stand end occupied by home fans.
Complaints were made by a section of Wigan supporters to nearby stewards and police acted swiftly.
Lancashire Police confirmed a supporter was arrested but is not charged at this stage.
A police statement said: “A 21-year-old man from Accrington was arrested on suspicion of a racially-aggravated public order offence and police assault. He has since been released under investigation, pending further enquiries.
“Lancashire Constabulary does not tolerate hate of any form and we are taking these allegations seriously.”
McClean, 32, had played a starring role in the dominant victory for Wigan which took them to the top of League One.
Originally from Derry, McClean was brought up during the latter years of The Troubles. A proud Irishman, he has more than 80 caps for his country.
His decision not to wear a poppy – because of its links to the British Army – has made him a target for sectarian abuse during his 10 years playing in England but the player has previously stated that he has had little support from the authorities.
“It’s horrendous and nobody should be subjected to that,” McClean said last summer.
“People need to be held responsible for their words and actions. Have I ever seen any of them post a public condemnation of the discrimination I get? That would be a no.”
After McClean re-signed for Wigan last month the club wrote to League One rivals to warn them that an FA charge will come their way if their player receives sectarian abuse from spectators.
When he came off the bench away at Charlton last month he was booed by home fans who chanted “England, England” as he took to the pitch.
from Football – inews.co.uk https://ift.tt/39sWbO1
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