Everton condemn 'sinister and intimidating' abuse of Dominic Calvert-Lewin's wife as police open investigation

Sandra Calvert-Lewin was subjected to online abuse after posting a message on social media to celebrate her husband's goal record at Goodison Park after Everton played their final home game at the stadium on Saturday against Southampton. She wrote: "30 goals at Goodison. Top 3 ever. They might not shout it - but we're proud every single day." Calvert-Lewin has scored 30 Premier League goals at Goodison, behind only only Duncan Ferguson and Romelu Lukaku.

The post subsequently came in for criticism and saw Sandra Calvert-Lewin subjected to vile abuse. Everton moved quickly to issue a statement and also confirmed a police investigation had been opened in a bid to identify the perpetrators.

A statement from the club read: "Everton Football Club strongly condemns the threatening, racist, and misogynistic abuse directed towards the wife of Dominic Calvert-Lewin on social media. This sinister and intimidating behaviour is not only deeply hurtful and distressing, it is also criminal - and does not represent the values of Everton or the overwhelming majority of our supporters. The Club has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discriminatory and abusive behaviour. We are working closely with Merseyside Police and the Premier League to ensure the individuals responsible are identified and held accountable for their actions. Threats or abuse of any kind - whether online or in person - are completely unacceptable and have no place in our game or in society. The Club urges anyone who sees or experiences such behaviour to report it to the authorities and relevant social media platforms immediately. We will continue to offer full support to Dominic and his family."

Merseyside Police said: "We are aware of racist and threatening social media comments directed towards the wife of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. To send such abhorrent messages to anyone online is utterly appalling and we are working with Everton Football Club as part of our initial enquiries. We take these reports extremely seriously and would like to remind social media users that any belief that they can maintain anonymity online to commit offences is misplaced. Offences committed online, which includes making threats and racist abuse, can be investigated."

Everton play their final game of the Premier League season on Sunday against Newcastle at St James' Park. The Toffees will then begin the 2025-26 season at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium.