Rangers take action following racist abuse of Emmanuel Fernandez

Record SPFL Champions Rangers have issued a public statement in defence of Djeidi Gassama and Emmanuel Fernandez after they were racially abused on social media, Afrik Foot reports.

The Home of the Set Fare Arena saw Livingston go two goals up against Rangers on Sunday, but goals from Emmanuel Fernandez and Mikey Moore saw the Gers overturn a two-goal deficit to take a point.

After the game, Rangers confirmed that Fernandez and Gassama were subject to racial abuse on their Instagram accounts, joining a poor run of what has turned out to be a recurring act in recent weeks.

Tolu Arokodare, Vinicius Jr, Hannibal Mejbri, Wesley Fofana, and Romaine Mundle have also been victims of such abuse in the past week alone.

Rangers respond to Emmanuel Fernandez Racist abuser

In an official statement made by the club, the Gers confirmed that they’ve handed over the issue to the police, and are in full co-operation to make sure justice is served.

“The accounts appear to be anonymous and are not connected to the club in any way. That may make action harder to take, but it does not lessen the seriousness of what happened or the responsibility of the platform involved,” the club wrote.

“Our immediate priority is the well-being of the players involved. We are in direct contact with Djeidi and Manny and have offered our full support both now and through any future judicial process.

“We are proud that they stood up for themselves by highlighting this vile abuse last night.

“Manny and Djeidi represent Rangers with commitment and pride. Every time they step onto the pitch, they do so on behalf of this club and our fans.

“Many supporters have already reached out with messages of support. We welcome that backing. It reflects what this club stands for: pride in the shirt, respect for those who wear it, and a commitment to stand together.”

Fernandez, meanwhile, has been tipped to get his first international call-up to the Nigerian team in the coming International break.

The 24-year-old centre-back was born in London to Nigerian parents. His other names are Olusegun and Opeyemi.