Bournemouth -attacker Antoine Semenyo thanked his teammates, Liverpool and competition officials for their support after the Ghana International reported racist abuse during the Premier League seal opener on Friday in Anfield.
Semenyo became the target of a man in the crowd during the first half, in which referee Anthony Taylor stopped the game to tackle the incident. Taylor spoke with both managers and captains before the game resumed.
The Merseyside police said that a 47-year-old man from Anfield was ejected. On Saturday they confirmed that the man from Liverpool had been arrested on suspicion of a racially exacerbated public order infringement and in custody to be interviewed.
Read also | Why was the game stopped during Liverpool vs Bournemouth?
«Last night in Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of the words of one person, but because of how the entire football family stood together,» Semenyo wrote on Instagram.
“To the Liverpool players and fans who showed their true character, to the Premier League officials who have dealt with professionally -thanks to the Liverpool who supported me at that time.
“Football showed his best side when it mattered the most.
With Liverpool in front with 2-0, Semenyo then scored twice in the second half to level the score before the home team gained two late goals to win 4-2.
Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola said it was a «big shame that these things continue to happen», while Captain Adam Smith was shocked by the abuse.
«Totally unacceptable, a bit in shock it happened today. I don’t know how ant is going to play and think these goals,» said Smith Sky Sports.
“He is a bit down – something has to be done. Taking a knee has taken no effect. We supported it and hopefully he will be fine.
Liverpool -Manager Arne Slot shakes hands with Antc Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo after the game. | Photocredit: Peter Powell
Liverpool -Manager Arne Slot shakes hands with Antc Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo after the game. | Photocredit: Peter Powell
«I wanted him to respond (after scoring), that is what I had done. I would have gone there immediately. It shows what kind of man he is to report and continue. Fair Play to Ant.»
Semenyo also revealed that he was racially abused online after the game.
«When will it stop,» he said, shared a screenshot of a comment in which someone placed Monkey Emojis on his profile.
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