Fulham condemn 'abhorrent' racist & homophobic abuse aimed at Calvin Bassey after defender's starring role in FA Cup triumph at Man Utd

Bassey was targeted by the online abuse in the aftermath of Sunday's penalty shootout victory at Old Trafford. The 25-year-old took to social media to share screenshots of the racist and homophobic slurs, with many of the perpetrators appearing to be Man Utd fans.

Fulham have since issued a statement deploring the abuse and showing support for their player. "Fulham Football Club is utterly appalled at the racist and homophobic abuse received and subsequently shared by Calvin Bassey on social media after yesterday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United," it read.

"We strongly condemn this abhorrent behaviour which has no place in football or society. Such actions are entirely unacceptable, and we stand in full support of Calvin Bassey, who will continue to receive our full backing. We will do everything in our power to work with the relevant authorities in identifying the perpetrators of these vile messages and taking the strongest form of action against them."

Bassey had opened the scoring in the FA Cup tie, reacting quickly to nod the ball beyond Andre Onana in the United goal in first-half stoppage time. Although Bruno Fernandes equalised for the hosts, Fulham would go on to triumph on penalties as Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee's efforts were saved by Bern Leno.

Fulham will hope they are able to bring the offenders to justice in what is the latest in a string of social media racist and/or homophobic abuse cases in football. On the pitch, they will turn their attentions to the trip to Brighton on Saturday back in the Premier League.