Birmingham goalkeeper Neil Etheridge ‘shaken up’ by alleged racist abuse vs Blackburn with game briefly halted

BIRMINGHAM keeper Neil Etheridge claimed he was racially abused in yesterday’s 2-2 FA Cup draw at Blackburn.

The Philippines captain, 32, reported it to ref Keith Stroud, who briefly halted the tie.

GettyNeil Etheridge claims he was racially abused during Birmingham’s FA Cup tie with Blackburn[/caption]

GettyEtheridge was furious and the game was briefly halted after the alleged abuse from a fan[/caption]

And FA chiefs will now investigate.

City boss John Eustace said:  “Neil was racially abused, which is bang out of order.

“There is simply no room for that in society.

“It’s really disappointing that this happened. We don’t condone it at all.

“The referee will report it and it will be for the authorities to take action. It’s a very serious issue.

“Neil was shaken up after the game. The lads got right behind him and made sure he was OK.”

The keeper was furious amid claims of a slit-eyed gesture from a fan during the fourth-round clash.

Blackburn said: “We are aware of allegations of racist abuse.

“The club has a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of abuse and discrimination, and will take the strongest possible action against anyone identified committing such offences.”

Birmingham added: “We will assist the FA and authorities accordingly.

“There is no room for racism in the game.”