FC Dallas owners condemn threats directed to player

The owners of FC Dallas came to the defense of player Reggie Cannon after he expressed disgust at the fans who booed players who knelt during the national anthem — and then faced a backlash on social media that included threats.

Cannon made comments following the game between Dallas and Nashville SC on Wednesday night. Players from both sides as well as the officials took a knee during the anthem at Toyota Stadium, prompting a smattering of boos.

“I think it was absolutely disgusting, ”Cannon said.“You’ve got fans booing you for people taking a stand for what they believe in?”

The response against Cannon was swift on social media, including comments that were racist and threatening. That prompted a statement from team owners Clark and Dan Hunt.

“We want to be clear: We love and support Reggie Cannon. The racist comments and death threats he has received are repulsive and unacceptable,” the Hunts said in the statement. “There is no place in our sport, or in our country for that matter, for the kind of horrific vitriol Reggie has had to endure today.”

MLS is resuming the regular season, with fans in the stands if local jurisdictions allow it. At the 25,000-seat Toyota Stadium, 5,100 fans are allowed to attend.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber joined the Hunts in condemning the threats.

“As we have stated consistently over many years, Major League Soccer supports players and staff who protest peacefully on behalf of equality and social justice,” Garber said in a statement.