Celtic have released a statement on social media condemning “sickening and pathetic racist behaviour directed towards Kyogo Furuhashi”, citing reports on the incident today from outlets such as Sky Sports.
Sky Sports have reported that Rangers are investigating after a video on social media showed their supporters chanting a racist song about Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi.
Celtic said on their social media channels this evening: “If reports are accurate then such sickening and pathetic racist behaviour directed towards Kyogo Furuhashi deserves absolute condemnation.
“Unfortunately, a number of Celtic players in recent years have suffered similar racist abuse. As a club open to all, we stand firmly against racism in all its forms and we will give Kyogo our full support. All stakeholders must work together in tackling all forms of bigotry.”
Clearly, any racist abuse directed at any player of any team is out of order.
It’s especially disappointing to see it aimed at a brilliant individual such as Kyogo, who has only arrived in Scotland recently. It’s not the welcome anyone should want for him.
A Rangers spokesperson confirmed the club are looking into the incident, telling Sky Sports: “Rangers condemns all forms of racism and discrimination.
“Those who indulge in such behaviour are not representative of our club or the loyal support who have stood by us through thick and thin.
“We are currently investigating to identify the individuals involved.”
Celtic will be supporting Kyogo through this storm as best they can. It’s also heartening to see them publicly back him.
He’s lived in Japan for all his life. Already coping with moving across the world, it can’t be easy to be the victim of all this.
We wish him all the best. He’s been an effervescent and brilliant addition to Scottish football. All right-minded fans will be supportive of him.
In other news, David Turnbull confirms Celtic tactics won’t change for AZ Alkmaar and derby this week.
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