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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Rio Ferdinand: Wolves fan arrested after Manchester United legend receives racist abuse at Molineux

Wolves have confirmed a supporter has been arrested for alleged racist abuse aimed at Rio Ferdinand.

The ex-Manchester United defender was at Molineux watching his former team as they signed off the Premier League season with a 2-1 win.

Ferdinand has welcomed the return of fans following the easing of coronavirus restrictions six days ago, with Wolves supporters in attendance.

But called out the racist abuse he was subjected to on Sunday, inviting the unidentified fan for a chat after having a “monkey chant” aimed at him.

He tweeted: "The last couple weeks, it’s been unreal to see fans back.

“However, to the Wolves fan who has just been thrown out for doing a monkey chant at me. You need to be dismissed from football & educated.

"Come meet me & I will help you understand what it feels like to be racially abused!"

West Midlands Police responded to Ferdinand, tweeting: "The fan has been arrested and is currently in custody. We DO NOT tolerate racist abuse."

Wolves soon followed up with an apology, promising a lifetime ban.

The club tweeted: "We are deeply sorry Rio. This person does not represent our club, our supporters or our values.

"We can confirm that this individual has been arrested by @WMPolice, who we will support to ensure that the strongest action is taken, including a lifetime ban from our club."

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