EPL: Chelsea release statement over defamatory statements against Conor Gallagher

Chelsea have slammed the “unacceptable” abuse directed at midfielder Conor Gallagher surrounding a video of him and a mascot.

The Blues captain accidentally blanked the youngster, who was holding up his hand, as he emerged in the tunnel to line up before their 2-2 draw with Burnley on Saturday.

Gallagher subsequently received a barrage of offensive comments on social media, being accused of racism as the child is black.

It’s gotten so bad that the club has issued a statement in response.

The Blues’ official statement reads, “Chelsea football club is aware of a video clip circulating on social media from Saturday’s fixture against Burnley, which has been taken considerably out of context.

“The subsequent level of abuse and defamatory comments directed towards Conor Gallagher is completely unacceptable.

“We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome”.