Birmingham goalkeeper Neil Etheridge was left “shook up” after reporting an alleged racist incident in Saturday’s FA Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers.
Etheridge reported an ‘incident of racism’ to the referee Keith Stroud after Jordan James snatched a late equaliser for Birmingham in stoppage time of the 2-2 draw with Blackburn at Ewood Park.
Sky Sports News understands the alleged abuse came from a home supporter behind Etheridge’s goal.
Birmingham boss John Eustace said Etheridge was visibly upset
Stroud delayed the restart and spoke to the head coaches, with Birmingham boss John Eustace revealing how the Philippines international goalkeeper was visibly upset after the tie.
“Neil was racially abused which is bang out of order,” Eustace said.
“There’s no room for any racism in society, let alone in football. We’re really disappointed that’s happened. As a football club we don’t condone it at all and we’re fully behind him.
“The referee will report it and further action will be taken from there. It’s a very, very serious issue.
“Neil was shook up a little bit after the game, quite rightly so. The lads got right around him and made sure he’s OK and we’ll speak to him when we get on the bus and see how he is.
“The referee will report it first and foremost and it will be up to Blackburn as a club to deal with the situation.”
The FA Cup tie ended in a 2-2 draw at Ewood Park
Blackburn released a club statement which read: “Blackburn Rovers is aware of allegations of racist abuse reported to the match officials by Birmingham City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge during today’s FA Cup fourth round tie at Ewood Park.
“Referee Keith Stroud notified the players and managers of both clubs of the alleged incident, which will now be fully investigated by Blackburn Rovers and the relevant authorities.
“Allegations of this nature are taken extremely seriously.
“The club has a zero tolerance policy for all forms of abuse and discrimination, and will take the strongest possible action against any individuals identified for committing such offences.”
Birmingham also released a statement which read: “The club can confirm that during the second half of Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers, after the game’s fourth goal, Neil Etheridge reported an incident of racism to the referee.
“This will be included in the official’s match report and the club will assist the FA and the authorities accordingly.
“Blues gives its full support to Neil. There is no room for racism in the game.
“No further comment will be made at this time.”
Sky Sports News has contacted the FA and Lancashire Police for comment.
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