Albion Rovers have offered their unconditional support to forward David Cox after he announced his retirement tonight following an alleged taunt regarding his mental health.
In a video posted on social media, Cox claims Stenhousemuir player Jonathan Tiffoney mocked him over his attempted suicide six years ago, allegedly telling him he "should have done it right the first time."
There has been an outpouring of support online for the 32-year-old and Rovers have released a statement backing the Lanark man, who has also played for Airdrie and Cowdenbeath.
The statement read: "The health, safety and well-being of everyone associated with Albion Rovers is of paramount importance to us.
"Football is a place for all and we believe is should be enjoyed without fear, favour or prejudice.
"We are aware of an alleged incident that occurred during this evenings match and have been in touch with David Cox to offer our unconditional backing and support."
This was not a 'throwaway' remark.
— Albion Rovers FC (@albionrovers) April 29, 2021
David has been subjected to abuse numerous times throughout his career.
If the team were aware of what was said before restarting after HT, they all agreed they would have walked off the park. #MentalHealthMatters #WeStandWithDavidCox
The club also tweeted: "This was not a 'throwaway' remark. David has been subjected to abuse numerous times throughout his career.
"If the team were aware of what was said before restarting after HT, they all agreed they would have walked off the park."
Stenhousemuir have announced an investigation is being launched into the incident, which will be referred to the SFA.
Their statement read: "The club is aware of a verbal altercation that took place between players from both Stenhousemuir and Albion Rovers during tonight’s match.
"We have spoken to the players involved, David Cox (Albion Rovers) who was on the bench, and Jonathan Tiffoney (Stenhousemuir) who was playing.
"Both players are making claims of serious and wholly inappropriate comments being made during the game that have implications for player wellbeing and mental health.
"Whilst we accept that things can get said during a game, we believe the allegations are sufficiently serious enough to merit a more detailed investigation.
"We will be referring this to the Scottish FA tomorrow and will work with them and our colleagues at Albion Rovers to investigate the incident."
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