Raheem: I heard abuse at Chelsea

RAHEEM STERLING has told police he was aware of being racially abused at Stamford Bridge. Sterling was interviewed by members of the Metropolitan Police yesterday, who travelled north as part of their investigation into an incident during Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat at Chelsea. The England

star confirmed he had heard racist insults and other foul language as he went to collect the ball for a corner near the Matthew Harding Stand. Sterling appeared to confirm this in a lengthy Instagram post earlier yesterday, in which he also said that he believed black players and white players were not treated equally by the media. Claiming that he believes this helps ‘fuel racism and aggressive behaviour’, he wrote: ‘Regarding what was said at the Chelsea game, as you can see by my reaction I just had to laugh because I expect no better.’ Footage began circulating on social media after the game that appeared to show a man in a blue top — believed to be known to Chelsea and the police — calling Sterling a ‘f ****** black c***’. Chelsea have told City the fan will be permanently banned from Stamford Bridge if firm evidence of racist abuse is provided. There has been speculation the word used may have been ‘Manc’ not ‘black’. Chelsea are conducting their own investigation and are believed to have asked BT Sport, who covered the game, for all camera angles of the incident. The broadcaster will also check pitchside microphones in case an audio record exists. Sterling was spoken to by City’s security personnel before the team left Stamford Bridge and his version of events was passed on to Chelsea and the police. It is believed this information sparked the visit to Manchester. The incident provoked considerable debate, with former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand calling for a protest, similar to NFL star Colin Kaepernick’s decision to take the knee during the national anthem before matches. Ferdinand posted: ‘Are we going to continue to allow this type of racist behaviour to go on? All for kicking a ball. In the NFL the players took to the knee...’ Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said he feared a return to the days when black players were targeted by racists in the crowd. ‘The bad old days are back,’ said Wright. ‘Chelsea, you have been shamed by this disgusting racist fan. ‘Absolutely no doubt about what he says.’