A SWANSEA CITY supporter has been arrested on suspicion of racially abusing Norwich City defender Sebastien Bassong during Saturday’s game between the sides, the Welsh club announced.
Bassong scored the second goal in a 4-3 win for Norwich at the Liberty Stadium but the incident is alleged to have occurred after Robert Snodgrass claimed the visitors’ fourth goal in the 77th minute.
The Cameroon international indicated to referee Howard Webb that he had been the victim of a racist gesture as he celebrated Snodgrass’ goal with his team-mates.
Webb subsequently related Bassong’s complaint to the fourth official and a male fan was then arrested.
“There was an incident after Norwich’s fourth goal. Sebastien Bassong made the referee aware there was a racist gesture towards him from a Swansea City fan,” said a Swansea spokesperson.
“Within 10 minutes of the report, the stewards had got hold of the TV footage, replayed it, identified the alleged person in question and within that period, he was arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence.
“The matter is with the police, but from the club’s point of view, we abhor racism and we have worked hard over the years to make this a family club. We will look into it and a further statement will follow in due course.”
Early reports suggested the arrested fan made a monkey gesture towards Bassong.
Norwich manager Chris Hughton expressed sadness at the thought that his side’s first away win of the campaign might be overshadowed by the incident.
“I was made aware at the end of the game there was a gesture made towards Sebastien and I have to say, credit to a very good football club in Swansea City,” he said.
“They have identified it and the matter is now with the right authorities and they are dealing with it.
“It is disappointing because it was a wonderful football match out there today, but Swansea have dealt with it in the correct way.”
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