Southampton 'disappointed' by racist abuse of Kyle Walker-Peters
Offensive remarks were posted in the comments of the 25-year-old's week-old Instagram post after his side's goalless draw with Manchester United. The club have forwarded the messages concerned to Hampshire Police.
The force said they are working with Southampton and "enquiries into this matter are ongoing".
Southampton also contacted police in February 2021 after midfielder Alex Jankewitz was racially abusedonline.
"What is equally frustrating is the lack of meaningful action in those two years from the social media platforms who allow such hatred to breed and fester."
Instagram's parent company Meta are now in contact with Southampton over the matter and have removed the abusive messages on Walker-Peters' account.
A racist term was directed at full-back Walker-Peters in response to a comment about United substitute Alejandro Garnacho.
Winger Garnacho appeared to be in pain after a challenge by Walker-Peters in the closing stages of the game at Old Trafford.
Two years ago, Swiss Jankewitz, now 21, was the victim of racist abuse after being sent off during Saints' 9-0 away defeat by United.
Southampton said the club "fights every day" to remove abusive people in order to protect staff and fans who "celebrate" diversity in football.
"We can only hope that they finally pay attention to what continues to be a major problem and that we do not find ourselves repeating these words in another two years' time," the statement added.
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