Irish footballers have come out in support of Cyrus Christie after fullback was racially abused on social media following Ireland's playoff defeat to Denmark last week.
James McClean said that Christie was upset and actually "in tears" after being told to "go and play for Jamaica". Christie tweeted a statement on Monday night addressing the issue. The 25-year-old said it was "deeply saddening" that racism is still present in the sport he loves.
Paul McGrath has been one of the Irish internationals to speak out regarding the abuse of Christie. McGrath wrote on Twitter that those responsible are cowards.
Disgusted to hear the racial comments towards Cyrus Christie on social media, no player deserves that. I’m sure Cyrus will rise above it and answer his critics on the field. #oneofourown #cowards
Paul McShane has also written in support of the Middlesbrough player.
To think that even a minority of Irish fans can be racist after the racial abuse that Irish people have had to put up with over the years is sickening to the core. Don’t let these idiots spoil the reputation of the true Irish fans who are the best in the world. #oneofourown
Others have also supported the Ireland international.
Well done Cyrus.. #COYBIG 🇮🇪 https://t.co/dwbRKwNg2p
— Kevin Kilbane (@kdkilbane77) November 20, 2017
Powerful words from @cyruschristie - you have our full support.
Completely unacceptable for players to suffer racist abuse, whether in person or online. #KlickItOut https://t.co/oqjQv8XDsn— Kick It Out (@kickitout) November 21, 2017
