Aston Villa and Chelsea have both issued statements regarding the abuse aimed at John McGinn during Saturday’s game at Stamford Bridge. A video has emerged on social media of what appear to be sectarian slurs being shouted towards the Scotland international as he prepared to take a corner in front of home supporters. Chelsea have confirmed they are investigating the incident and have urged anyone with any information to call a phone line.
A statement from Chelsea read: “We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an individual using abusive language of a sectarian nature in the crowd at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour totally unacceptable and we condemn the language used. The Club is working to identify the person involved and will take the strongest possible action against them. Any supporter who was present in that area of the ground and has information that can assist the Club’s investigation should contact the Club via our discrimination reporting line 0207 3863355.”
In turn, Villa praised Chelsea for their “swift and decisive action” towards the matter.
Aston Villa statement said: “Aston Villa are grateful to our friends at Chelsea FC for their swift and decisive action in both condemning the bigotry aimed at John McGinn at Stamford Bridge and in launching an investigation to identify the culprit. Aston Villa will fully support that investigation. Both Clubs have zero tolerance for the scourge of discrimination in any form when it occurs in our stadia.”
