Liverpool and Everton issue joint statement condemning 'reprehensible' racist abuse received by Abdoulaye Doucoure during Merseyide derby

The fiery clash at Goodison Park, which marked the last-ever Merseyside derby at the historic venue, ended dramatically as James Tarkowski’s late equalizer secured a 2-2 draw. Shortly after Tarkowski’s goal, Doucoure was involved in a heated exchange with Curtis Jones. The confrontation escalated as players and staff from both sides clashed, prompting referee Michael Oliver to send off Doucoure, Jones, Liverpool boss Arne Slot, and assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff.

Doucoure’s celebration in front of the Liverpool fans appeared to provoke the reaction from Jones, with replays showing the Everton midfielder gesturing towards the away supporters. Bottles were reportedly thrown from the stands as the situation spiralled out of control. Following the highly charged encounter, Doucoure was subjected to racist insults on his Instagram page. Subsequently, Everton and Liverpool have come together to stand against the disgusting messages directed at the 32-year-old midfielder. They have pledged to work closely with authorities and social media platforms to ensure the perpetrators face appropriate consequences.

The two clubs released a strongly worded statement which read: "Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs are aware of – and condemn in the strongest possible terms – racist abuse received by Abdoulaye Doucoure following Wednesday night’s Merseyside derby. Such abuse is reprehensible and will not, and should not, be tolerated. Together, the two clubs will work with Merseyside Police who are conducting an investigation with the aim of identifying the individuals responsible.

"We also encourage people who witness or experience online abuse to report and highlight it to the social media platforms on which it appears,’ the statement continued. We must all, including the social media companies, take a zero-tolerance stance. Platforms need to take accountability and action to ban such abusers. Racism and hate have no place online, in our stadia or in our communities."

Merseyside Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with Chief Superintendent Claire Doyle reaffirming their commitment to tackling discrimination.

"We have successfully prosecuted so-called fans for racist abuse and they have been handed football banning orders along with a criminal record for their behaviour," he said.

"If you have any information in relation please let us know because it could help our ongoing enquiries."

As a result of his sending-off, Doucoure will be suspended for Everton’s next match against Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, the Reds will host Wolves on Sunday at Anfield.