Man arrested over online racist abuse of West Brom's Romaine Sawyers

It is alleged the man racially abused Romaine Sawyers online.

The 49-year-old from man, from Kingswinford, was taken into police custody on Friday evening for questioning.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We have arrested a man on suspicion of racially abusing West Bromwich Albion player Romaine Sawyers online.

"The 49-year-old man from Kingswinford was this evening [Friday] taken into police custody for questioning.

"Our dedicated football hate crime officer is also investigating another report of a racist comment towards the same footballer.

"We will not tolerate racism."

The force’s football hate crime officer is also investigating reports of another racist comment towards the player.

It comes after Albion contacted West Midlands Police after Romaine Sawyers was sent a racist message during their defeat to Manchester City.

Assist

Yesterday a statement released by the club said: "West Bromwich Albion has today contacted West Midlands Police to report a racist message sent to Romaine Sawyers on social media.

"Everyone at the club is appalled by the abhorrent message which was sent during Tuesday’s Premier League fixture against Manchester City.

"The club has a proud history of confronting all forms of discrimination and will assist the authorities with their inquiries, seeking the toughest available legal punishment, as well as a lifetime ban from The Hawthorns for the individual responsible.

"Albion will offer Romaine the relevant support required at this time and continues with its long-standing commitment to help rid football of racism."

Albion boss Sam Allardyce also offered his support to Sawyers and questioned what could be done to stop online abuse.

He said: “It leaves a big question about whether reporting it is enough. Romaine – or any black person across the country – should not have to be open to any type of abuse on social media.

“He is extremely upset, as anybody would be. More than Romaine have suffered throughout football in the last few days.

“Social media sites need to act in a more responsible way. We have to do our best to cut this out.”