Chelsea 'disgusted' by online racist abuse aimed at Reece James

Premier League club call on social media platforms to take tougher action against offenders

Chelsea's Reece James is the latest Premier League player on the receiving end of online racist abuse. EPA

Chelsea have condemned the "despicable behaviour" of culprits targeting defender Reece James with online racist abuse and called on social media platforms to take tougher action.

England international James posted a screenshot of the abusive messages he received on Instagram with the caption "something needs to change".

"Everyone at Chelsea is disgusted with the racist abuse Reece James received on social media on Friday evening," the Premier League club said.

"This club finds racism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour unacceptable."

It caps a week of shame in which West Brom midfielder Romaine Sawyers, and Manchester United duo Axel Tuanzebe and Anthony Martial were also the victims of online racial abuse this week.

Chelsea said social media must create an environment where hateful and discriminatory actions are not tolerated.

"We add our voice to those urging social media platforms and regulatory authorities to take stronger, more effective and more urgent action against this despicable behaviour," Chelsea said.

"Something needs to change and it needs to change now."

UK government ministers met top English players on Monday to discuss online abuse and discrimination as part of a series of 'Future of Football' discussions.

The government plans to introduce new laws on online abuse this year and the Premier League has launched its own online abuse reporting system.

On Friday, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters condemned the abuse received by players, saying he was "appalled".

"Racist behaviour of any form is unacceptable and nobody should have to deal with it," he said.

"Tackling online hate is a priority for football, and I believe social media companies need to do more."

The Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, has encouraged players targeted by racial abuse to "press charges" against offenders.

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