Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe was subjected to racist abuse on social media after playing in Sheffield United’s shock 2-1 victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
Tuanzebe made his first Premier League start of the season against the Blades and saw Oliver Burke’s shot deflect off his left thigh past David de Gea and in off the underside of the bar with 16 minutes remaining.
The 23-year-old was also booked and then substituted for Donny van de Beek in the 82nd minute as United lost their fourth Premier League match at home this season in a blow to their title hopes.
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But following the defeat, the defender was targeted on his Instagram account through dozens of vile racist comments – including one which read ‘DAMNNN N*****’ – as well as several abhorrent monkey emojis on an old photo that he had posted a fortnight ago of his United shirt and number.
Some reports have also claimed Tuanzebe has deleted his Twitter account as a result of the abuse he received following the game at Old Trafford.
Sportsmail have contacted Facebook, Kick It Out and Manchester United for comment.
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand condemned the comments made on Tuanzebe’s account, writing on Twitter: “This is a disgrace. These ignorant idiots need to be exposed so everyone can see them for what they are!”
The news comes just a few days after Micah Richards’ new documentary shone a light on the abhorrent online race hate footballers face.
Images of monkeys and bananas have been received on the Sportsmail columnist’s Twitter and Instagram feeds after he supported Black Lives Matter.
Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham, Manchester City star Raheem Sterling, Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha and Manchester United’s Paul Pogba have also received the same.
Jordan Henderson and Tyrone Mings have also held talks with Government ministers this week about tackling abuse in football.
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