Pranav Nair
Manchester United star Anthony Martial subjected to racial abuse online following West Brom draw
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United star Anthony Martial has been subjected to racial abuse by online trolls following the draw away to West Brom.
The French ace played 66 minutes before being withdrawn in favour of Mason Greenwood. It wasn’t the 25-year-old’s best performance and he largely struggled to get going.
It proved to be a frustrating night out for United who could only manage a 1-1 draw. The result could have been worse had it not been for poor finishing from the Baggies and David de Gea in goal.
While frustration at the result, especially against a relegation-threatened side is understandable, some people crossed the boundaries to make their point.
Martial was subjected to abuse on his Instagram account. A number of users posted racist messages and symbols on his photos.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time that he was been subject to such vile comments. Both he and Axel Tuanzebe were at the receiving end of such comments following the loss to Sheffield United last month. (h/t Sky Sports)
It prompted United to join sides with Liverpool, Manchester City and Everton to issue a joint statement condeming such actions. Racism is a malaise that affects more than one club and needs to be eradicated.
Instagram have already revealed their intention to levy tougher punishmetns that could also include deleting the accounts of those found indulging in such activities. (h/t Sky Sports)
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Banning accounts will get such users off the platform, at least for a time being. However, it does little to stem the vitriol they dish out.
A tougher stand must be taken against those involved to protect players from any sort of vile abuse. Such incidents do not have a place in society, let alone sport.
