Chelsea issue statement on sectarian abuse John McGinn suffered at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea have vowed to take the ‘strongest possible action’ against the person who hurled sectarian abuse aimed at Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Glasgow-born McGinn, whose grandfather was a former Celtic chairman, was subjected to the abuse while taking a corner. The insults have been described as ‘anti-Catholic and anti-Irish’.

A Chelsea statement published on Monday evening, read, “We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an individual using abusive language of a sectarian nature in the crowd at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

“Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour totally unacceptable and we condemn the language used.

“The club is working to identify the person involved and will take the strongest possible action against them. Any supporter who was present in that area of the ground and has information that can assist the club’s investigation should contact the club via our discrimination reporting line 0207 3863355.”

Earlier on Monday, ex-Chelsea winger and former Scotland international Pat Nevin, who remains close to the club, took to Twitter to express his disgust.

“I’ve just received video of vile sectarian comments aimed at the fabulous John McGinn at Stamford Bridge,” Nevin said.

“Heading there now for tomorrow’s game and will talk to the club. You get vile abuse from many fans of many clubs, but this is NO excuse! I hope and expect investigations!”

Chelsea are back in action at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening when Zenit Saint Petersburg are the visitors in the return of the Champions League.

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