Police have arrested a man after Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo said that he was racially abused during the Cherries' match against Liverpool.

Friday night's game at Anfield was paused in the 29th minute after Semenyo, 25, made a report to referee Anthony Taylor.

Merseyside Police have confirmed that a 47-year-old man from Liverpool was identified and removed from Anfield following Semenyo's report.



He was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and taken into custody for questioning.

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A statement from Merseyside Police read: "We've arrested a man, 47, from Liverpool on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after reports racist abuse was directed at Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo during their game against Liverpool on Friday 15 August."

Liverpool noted the allegation and condemned 'racism and discrimination in all forms' while the Premier League, the FA and anti-discrimination body Kick It Out all made statements.

Semenyo later scored twice for Bournemouth, who lost the game 4-2.

On Saturday morning, Semenyo released a powerful statement thanking his team-mates, Liverpool's players and fans, and the match officials.

This is why I play - for moments like these, for my team-mates, for everyone who believes in what this beautiful game can be.

"The overwhelming messages of support from across the football world remind me why I love this sport(

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk labelled the alleged abuse aimed towards Semenyo a 'disgrace', admitting that racism in football is symptomatic of a wider problem in society, despite long-running campaigns to help prevent such discrimination.