Jan Vertonghen has apologised to Chelsea after Tottenham Hotspur fans were alleged to have racially abused defender Antonio Rudiger on Sunday, per The Mirror.
What’s he said?
Rudiger complained of hearing monkey noises during the game, which Chelsea won 2-0.
He reported the incident to his captain, Cesar Azpilicueta, who then told the referee, Anthony Taylor.
That led to three separate stadium announcements, warning that racist abuse was interfering with the game.
And Vertonghen has condemned the abuse, insisting that Spurs should take the strongest action possible against the supporters if they are found guilty.
Watch Spurs vs Brighton Live and Free with Amazon Prime on Boxing Day
He said: “I didn’t hear anything but if these things are still happening, it’s a disgrace and we should act strong against this.
“I’ve got no idea how people ever thought this way. Sometimes you think people are smarter than this. I’m very convinced it’s just a minority. But anyway, it’s very wrong.
“I don’t know if it’s getting worse. It shouldn’t be there in any way. I just can’t get my head around how people do this. I’ve got no words for it.
“If any of their players were affected by it, we apologise in the name of Spurs. But it’s a minority of idiots. We don’t want to identify with these people.”
A strong message
This is excellent from Vertonghen.
The defender is right to be furious about the abuse, with fans debasing the very fabric of the football club.
It was a dark day for Spurs, who were poor on the pitch and even poorer off it.
But this is a step forward.
Mourinho’s produced some incredible footballing stars – how much do you know about them?
His outright condemnation is likely to make waves and Spurs need to follow his advice and stamp out any indication of racist abuse at the club.
Those who are guilty simply cannot be allowed back into the stadium and should really be serving prison sentences.
Meanwhile, Spurs fans have reacted to being linked with a swoop for a Ligue 1 star.