Moscow club accused of racism against own player

Russian club Spartak Moscow have landed themselves in the middle of a racism storm after they posted a video of some black members of their squad training in the sunshine with the caption “see how chocolate melts in the sun”.

The tweet was posted on Saturday morning at 9.16am from the club’s official and verified Twitter account.

Spartak were immediately condemned on social media and urged to delete the tweet and apologise for what was described as Twitter users as an outright racist comment.

It is also the second time Spartak have been involved in a racism scandal after Liverpool youngster Rhian Brewster was subjected to racist attacks while playing there in a Uefa Youth League match in December.

This latest racism story coming out of Russia will again raise concerns in a year that the country is preparing to welcome players of all nationalities, race and religion when the World Cup kicks off in June.

Meanwhile, Ilkay Gundogan has revealed how Liverpool came close to signing him before he eventually decided to move to Manchester City in the summer of 2016.

The Germany international eventually decided to leave Borussia Dortmund to become Pep Guardiola’s first signing at The Etihad, but has admitted he spoke with Jurgen Klopp about moving to the Reds instead.

“I spoke with Jurgen about different things,” Gundogan told the Daily Mail. “He always liked me as player and I would be a liar if I said he didn’t try. But when I had the opportunity to join City and work with Pep, it was quite clear that I wanted to come here.

“When I was a little bit down because of my injury, he was quite sure he was still going to try to buy me. That showed me it could never be the wrong decision to join this club. They are both great managers, great characters and very ambitious. I’ve been lucky.”

Gundogan has since made 22 Premier Leagueappearances for City over oneand- a-half injury blighted seasons, but is on course to win his first Premier League title with the club. And the 27-year-old has admitted this weekend’s game against Liverpool could prove pivotal.

“It could be a big moment for us,” says Gundogan. “Anfield is one of the hardest stages in the world and on good days Liverpool are able to beat any team in the world.

“It’s more exciting for everyone when you have two top teams who try to attack and try to create chances.

“I can imagine it’s not attractive for the spectators when we play teams with 10 players around their own box, just defending and hoping for a set-piece or throwin, anything. THE INDEPENDENT