FIGHTING BACK
Christie slams abuse trolls as probe launched
CYRUS CHRISTIE has called for more action to tackle the issue of racist abuse after the Ireland star was targeted by online trolls.
Middlesbrough defender Christie scored an own goal in the Republic of Ireland’s 5-1 defeat to Denmark last week, after which he was subjected to the abuse on social media.
Christie’s i nternational team- mate James McClean drew attention to the situation while speaking at the PFAI awards, which took place on Saturday, and the FAI has since reported the issue to authorities.
Christie released a hard-hitting statement himself last night, which read: ‘Firstly, I’d like to say I am extremely proud to represent my country the Republic of Ireland and I give everything I can each time I put on the green shirt.
‘I genuinely believe our fans are some of the
best in the world. However, there have been a number of racist comments which have been brought to my attention during the World Cup qualifying campaign over the last couple of months and most recently last week. ‘These comments are not representative of our fans or our sport. We were all deeply upset to not reach the World Cup finals and are hurting just as much as everyone else. ‘It is deeply saddening that racism is still part of the game we all enjoy and love. I strongly believe we need to stand up against these individuals who do not belong in football or any other sport.’ PFA Ireland and anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card had earlier last night issued a joint statement, condemning posts they say urged Christie to go to Jamaica and talked of lynching the 25year-old. ‘The nature of this incident is really shocking, no player should be subjected to that and we hope that the perpetrator is called to account,’ said PFA Ireland’s general secretary Stephen McGuinness. ‘This incident should serve as a message to all involved in the game from grassroots upwards that racism needs a response from authorities and team-mates. It cannot be ignored.’ Garrett Mullan, a director of SRTRC, called for social networks to play a pro-active part in weeding out such abuse and praised McClean for speaking out. ‘There is no place for racism in sport or on social media. We welcome the fact that the FAI and Gardai are taking action but social media outlets also have a role to play.’