Advertisement

Chelsea suspend four fans from attending matches pending further investigation into alleged Raheem Sterling abuse

Chelsea have announced that they have suspended four fans, pending further investigations into an incident in which Manchester City midfielder Raheem Sterling was allegedly racially abused.

The incident took place during Chelsea's 2-0 win over Manchester City on Saturday evening.

Images show the England forward on the receiving end of a torrent of abuse from a group of Chelsea fans in the Matthew Harding End as he went to collect the ball.

Chelsea had previously confirmed that they had identified one supporter thought to be involved in the incident, and passed his name on to police.

Chelsea are investigating the incident involving Sterling that took place on Saturday. (Getty Images)
Chelsea are investigating the incident involving Sterling that took place on Saturday. (Getty Images)

A statement on the club website said: "Chelsea Football Club has suspended four people from attending Chelsea matches pending further investigations into allegations regarding the behaviour of supporters towards Raheem Sterling during our match against Manchester City on Saturday.

"Our investigations into this matter are ongoing. We are fully supporting the police investigation and any information we gather will be passed on to them.

"Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour abhorrent and if there is evidence of ticket holders taking part in any racist behaviour, the club will issue severe sanctions, including bans. We will also fully support any criminal prosecutions."

City meanwhile have commended the action taken by Chelsea.

“Manchester City welcomes Chelsea’s decision to issue suspensions to the individuals who verbally abused Raheem Sterling during the match at Stamford Bridge on Saturday,” a statement read.

“The club and Raheem are fully engaged with Chelsea and the investigating authorities as they continue to examine the events in question. Manchester City and Raheem are committed to working with all relevant parties and organisations to support the objective of eradicating racism from the game.”