Bolton Wanderers' Chairman Sharon Brittan has condemned the racist abuse that was directed at the club’s players and coaching staff during Saturday’s draw against Morecambe at the Mazuma Stadium.
Manager Ian Evatt led his players off the field of play towards the end of the match after speaking with the match referee following racist comments that were directed at the Wanderers dug out.
Sharon said: “I completely stand by the actions of Ian and the rest of the staff, who were subjected to abuse throughout the game. However, when that abuse became racist he had no option but to make a stand against these completely unacceptable and disgraceful actions from a minority of the Morecambe supporters.
“I implore Morecambe Football Club to treat this matter very seriously because football needs to play its part in rooting out all forms of hatred and discrimination from society.
“Football is a game for all and what we witnessed today was shocking. We will ensure that our colleagues who were abused receive the care and support they need.”
Manager Ian Evatt added: “Football is a highly emotional game and we should be talking about what happened on the pitch and not off it.
"Yet, what I heard today was beyond shocking. Never in all my years in football have I experienced what occurred today.
"Having vile things said to us throughout the game and being spat upon is bad enough, but when sickening racist comments were directed to my staff and players I had to make it clear that it was not acceptable.
“Turning a blind eye or ignoring such hatred would be tantamount to condoning it so we left the pitch.
“I have to say how proud I am of the players for keeping their focus and discipline when they returned to go on and score a fully deserved equaliser.
“Bolton Wanderers Football Club will never tolerate racism and discrimination and I am proud of how Sharon and the Board embody this with their work in the community and the values they hold.”
Bolton Wanderers stands Together Against Discrimination.