Birmingham City ´appalled and saddened´ by reports of racist abuse aimed at Deeney

Birmingham City have said they are “appalled and saddened” after it was alleged that one of their own fans racially abused captain Troy Deeney after Tuesday’s home defeat to Cardiff City.

Deeney came on as a substitute at St Andrew’s in the 73rd minute with the game goalless, before late strikes from Perry Ng and Callum Robinson gave the Welsh side a much-needed 2-0 win.

The Midlands club issued a statement on Wednesday revealing that the player and several of their fans had reported someone racially abusing Deeney after the match.

“After the full-time whistle of Tuesday night’s Sky Bet Championship match against Cardiff City, Troy Deeney and a number of supporters have reported hearing the 34-year-old subjected to racist abuse,” the statement read.

“The club captain and those inside St Andrew’s identified this as coming from the home section of the Gil Merrick lower when players were leaving the field of play towards the players’ tunnel.

“This incident has been referred to the relevant authorities and the club will assist in their investigation.

“Blues gives its full support to Troy and is appalled and saddened that yet again, one of our players is not safe from discrimination on the football pitch.

“There is no room for racism in the game. No further comment will be made at this time.”

Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge recently reported he had been racially abused by opposition fans during Birmingham’s FA Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers.

Deeney joined the Blues from Watford in 2021 after 12 seasons at Vicarage Road, six of which were in the Premier League where he scored 47 goals in 165 top-flight appearances.

And the Premier League echoed Birmingham’s comments, tweeting: “No one should have to suffer abuse of the kind received by Troy Deeney.

“It has no place in football or society. The Premier League condemns all forms of discrimination. Football is for everyone.”