‘Shameful behavior’: Former England star Wright condemns Leicester fans as new storm of racism hits English football (VIDEO)

Gunners legend Wright claims on social media that he and Keane were subjected to a torrent of abuse from Leicester fans inside Wembley Stadium in the Foxes’ 1-0 win over the Champions of Manchester City during the English football curtain-raiser ahead of the new season.

In a brief video posted to his Twitter account, Wright suggested Leicester fans ‘hitchhiked’ derogatory phrases to him, which he said were racist in nature, during the game.

He also claims that they used the term xenophobic  » Irish c * nt »In reference to the former Manchester United skipper Keane, a player selected 67 times by the Republic of Ireland.

 » Let me clarify this because obviously Leicester fans know how much I respect them and their owners and I am constantly making Leicester and what they do.Wright said.

 » But I have to say, where we were doing the punditry today from the porch where we were, some of these Leicester fans, what they were doing, calling Roy ‘Irish c’, speaking the words to me – they know what words they were talking to me – you let yourself down, brother, great time.

 » I am really disappointed with this fantastic day for Leicester City fans. These fans in front of these kids, throwing stuff, what they did, what they said and what they screamed – shameful behavior, man.

 » Leicester, you shouldn’t act like that, some fans. You do not represent Leicester. « 

A representative of the Leicester City social media team quickly noted Wright’s objection and responded on Twitter.

 » Please don’t let this go, Ian Wright“, Replied the club.  » We would be happy to receive your help in identifying those involved so that they can be held accountable. We wholeheartedly condemn all forms of discrimination. »

Wright’s objection comes amid growing reports of racism in the English game amid the ongoing campaign in the sport for ‘Black Lives Matter’. It has been revealed in recent days that all 20 Premier League clubs will kneel down again ahead of kick-off as players continue what has become a controversial anti-racist move, prompting some groups of England fans to boo their own squad during Euro 2020.

Indeed, Wright is also among a growing list of leading black athletes in England who have faced a plague of racist remarks online, with the 57-year-old saying earlier this year that he was ‘Disappointed’ when an Irish teenager who was convicted of sending him racist messages on social media escaped jail.

 » This case was never about revenge, it was always about consequences for acts of racism. My forgiveness to this young man was for my deeply personal need and desire to move forward without further anguish ”, Wright said at the time.

 » Seeing this judgment, I can only wonder what deterrent effect there is for anyone uttering such vile racist insults.

 » An individual wished me death because of my skin color. No claim of « naivety » or « immaturity » by a judge will ever be acceptable to us.

 » The supposed immaturity and naivety of our abusers is never comforting. So yes, I am disappointed. I’m tired. We are all tired. »