Diouf claims innocence over 'racist remarks'
El-Hadji Diouf claims he is innocent
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By Richard James. |  |
Wednesday, 23, Sep 2009 09:57
By Michael Younger.
Blackburn Rovers' Senegalese striker El Hadji Diouf claims that during Sunday's game against Everton at Goodison Park, home fans threw bananas at him.
Diouf was questioned by police following Blackburn's 3-0 defeat on Merseyside after allegations that he verbally abused a ball-boy.
But turning the tables on the incident, the hitman claims he did nothing wrong and that he was the victim of racist abuse from the home supporters.
Speaking to Radio Monte Carlo, Diouf said: "The ball went out and I wanted to take the throw in quickly. The ball-boy threw the ball at me like a bone to a dog.
"The assistant referee told me he saw it but we had to continue and we would look at it at half-time.
"What's more people threw bananas at me. The fourth official said he would make a report to the police."
Newspaper reports claim Merseyside police have received no contact from referee Lee Mason and an inquiry into Diouf's claims, made after the final whistle, unearthed no evidence to support them.
Everton chairman Bill Kenwright told the Daily Mail newspaper: "Everton FC abhors anything to do with racism.
"We have worked diligently and tirelessly to eradicate this blight, not only on the game but on society. Consequently, I am saddened by this whole episode."
Last night's League Cup action at Stoke was also tainted by racism accusations, with Blackpool striker Jason Euell being interviewed by police following the game.
The Jamaican was questioned after the Seasiders' boss Ian Holloway claimed that Stoke fans racially abused the player.
Holloway told the BBC: "There was one horrible moment when a racist remark was made to Jason by one supporter. I hope the fellow is banned for life.
"It is disgusting, but the stewards believed Jason and threw the guy out."