A man accused of racially abusing Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo has been released on bail, with strict orders to stay away from every football stadium in the UK.
The 47-year-old, from Liverpool, has not been named. As part of his bail conditions, he cannot go within a mile of any stadium or attend any matches.
The incident happened during Bournemouth’s game against Liverpool at Anfield on Friday. Semenyo reported the abuse, leading to a brief pause in play as the referee consulted both managers. An anti-discrimination announcement was made inside the stadium, and police were seen entering the referee’s room at half-time.
Despite the incident, Semenyo went on to score twice in the second half, helping Bournemouth fight back from two goals down before Liverpool eventually won 4-2.
After the match, Semenyo thanked fans for their support, calling it “overwhelming” and saying it reminded him why he loves football. On Saturday, he posted: “Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of one person’s words, but because of how the entire football family stood together.”
The Premier League confirmed its anti-discrimination protocols were followed and said the matter will be fully investigated.
This comes just two days after Spurs forward Mathys Tel was subjected to racist abuse online following a missed penalty in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain.
Merseyside Police said on Monday that the investigation is still ongoing and they remain in contact with Liverpool FC.