Liverpool were embroiled in another racism controversy on Friday night when a fan was suspected of shouting abuse at the Oldham Athletic defender Tom Adeyemi.
The incident occurred 10 minutes before the end of Liverpool's 5-1 win over the League One side in the third round of the FA Cup. Adeyemi became embroiled in a row with a supporter, or supporters, at the front of the Kop.
Adeyemi was visibly upset by the exchange and it required several team-mates, the Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard, and the referee, Neil Swarbrick, to calm the 20-year-old down. Witnesses reported two fans wearing Luis Suárez T-shirts – similar to those worn by Liverpool players at Wigan after the Uruguayan striker was found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra – confronting Adeyemi, and one allegedly shouting "You fucking black bastard".
A senior Liverpool official said: "We will do everything in our power to investigate the matter and ensure the appropriate action is taken."
The incident could not have come at a worse time for Liverpool, given the widespread condemnation the club have received for their vehement support of Suárez.
Disgraceful. They should have them play in front of an empty stadium.