Man City's Semenyo highlights further racial abuse

Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo has highlighted further racial abuse he has received this season.

On Monday, the 26-year-old posted on his Instagram story saying "it's started again" with a screenshot of comments sent by an account.

While playing for old club Bournemouth in the opening Premier League match of this season, Semenyo reported being racially abused by a spectator during the 4-2 loss against Liverpool in which he scored twice.

Mark Mogan, 47, was arrested and charged by Merseyside Police with a racially aggravated section 5 public order offence, but he denied the offence at Liverpool Magistrates' Court in December.

The court heard at the time that the trial is scheduled to take place on 22 April.

City are understood to be offering Ghana international Semenyo all the care and support he needs following the latest isolated incident.

"We are appalled at the unacceptable online racist abuse targeted at Antoine Semenyo and have offered our support to the player and club," a Premier League spokesperson said.

"Racism has no place in our game or anywhere in society. It is clear that more needs to be done to address this issue and we will work alongside clubs, football bodies, law enforcement and social media companies to ensure this remains a priority for all.

"Any individuals identified and found guilty of discrimination will face the strongest possible consequences, including custodial sentences, football banning orders and criminal records."

The Football Association has also been approached for comment.

Semenyo's case is the latest in a growing list of racist abuse suffered by Premier League players this season, with four players targeted during a single weekend in February.

The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) is investigating the abuse of the four players in February, which included Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida, Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana and Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare.

Earlier on Monday, Sunderland condemned racist abuse directed at forward Brian Brobbey on social media following his side's 1-0 league win over Tottenham.