Share

Chelsea skipper no qualms over reporting race abuse aimed at Rudiger

London - Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta said he had no hesitation in reporting the alleged racist abuse suffered by team-mate Antonio Rudiger during a 2-0 Premier League win away to London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Willian's first-half goal double secured victory for Chelsea at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as manager Frank Lampard got the better of his former Blues boss Jose Mourinho.

But a fiery London derby saw Spurs' Son Heung-min sent off for a needless kick at Rudiger in the second half, while an object was thrown at Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Meanwhile, a fan was seen directing a 'monkey gesture' at German defender Rudiger while an announcement aired three times over the ground's public address system said "racist behaviour from spectators is interfering with the game".

Afterwards Azpilicueta told Sky Sports: "It is made very clear to us all that if we have heard any racist incident, to report it.

"Toni came to me and told me he was listening to racist songs towards him so I reported it to the referee (Anthony Taylor)."

Spanish central defender Azpilicueta added: "We are very concerned and aware of this behaviour.

"Altogether we need to make it stop. I hope everything gets clear and we eradicate it as soon as possible. It's an issue not just in football but in life."

Meanwhile, Mourinho said he had been unaware of any abuse directed at Rudiger.

"I saw nothing, I saw the referee follow the protocol, he came to Andre Marriner (fourth official), he came to me and Frank Lampard and told us what was happening.

"The protocol was followed and we are one of the clubs..every club is together on this situation and of course we are disappointed."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
64% - 465 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
36% - 262 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE