Fulham have furious condemned the racist and homophobic abuse directed at defender Calvin Bassey in the aftermath of their FA Cup fifth round success over Manchester United yesterday.

The London club have committed to taking the strongest possible action against those who sent abusive messages to Bassey, who shared some of the abuse he had received on social media after the match. The Nigerian international, who opened the scoring with a header just before half time on his first FA Cup appearance, was overlooked for the man of the match award by the BBC pundit Alan Shearer but, like his team-mates, celebrated wildly in front of the travelling supporters after Bernd Leno saved penalties from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee to secure a famous win for Marco Silva’s side.

A Fulham club statement released this morning reads as follows:

“Fulham Football Club is utterly appalled at the racist and homophobic abuse received and subsequently shared by Calvin Bassey on social media after yesterday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United.

We strongly condemn this abhorrent behaviour which has no place in football or society. Such actions are entirely unacceptable, and we stand in full support of Calvin Bassey, who will continue to receive our full backing. 

We will do everything in our power to work with the relevant authorities in identifying the perpetrators of these vile messages and taking the strongest form of action against them.

Fulham Football Club is committed to maintaining a firm stance against all forms of discrimination and remains dedicated to fostering an environment of respect and inclusion.”