Premier League investigating alleged 'discriminatory abuse' in Tyne-Wear derby

Granit Xhaka and Lutsharel Geertruida celebrate win after the match
Granit Xhaka and Lutsharel Geertruida celebrate win after the matchReuters / Scott Heppell

England's Premier League said that ⁠it is investigating an incident of "discriminatory abuse" during Sunderland's 2-1 Premier League derby ‌win away to Newcastle United after one of visiting ‌team's players was allegedly racially abused.

The ‌incident occurred early in the second half of ‌the frenetic north-east clash when Newcastle's Sven ‌Botman was being treated for a head injury, causing referee Anthony Taylor to briefly stop the ‌game.

"Today's match between Newcastle United and ⁠Sunderland was ‌temporarily paused during the second half after a report ​of discriminatory abuse from the crowd, directed at Sunderland’s Lutsharel Geertruida," the ​league statement said.

"This is in line with the Premier League's on-field anti-discrimination protocol. The ⁠incident at St ​James’ Park will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs."

Newcastle United also offered their ‌support to the 25-year-old Dutch defender.

"Our stance is clear - we do not tolerate discrimination of any form. We will work with the authorities to fully investigate and will ensure any individuals are identified and held accountable," a Newcastle spokesperson said.

The incident took the shine of a superb second-half performance by ‌Sunderland, who came back from a goal ​down and snatched the three points ‌with a 90th-minute goal from striker Brian Brobbey.

"He (Geertruida) looks OK. It is unacceptable, and important to report and manage the situation properly. He looks OK, but we ⁠need to support ⁠him," Sunderland coach ‌Regis le Bris said.

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