The vile pose – posted on Twitter – was condemned by Liverpool fans, many of whom had brought anti-racist banners along to the match.It came amid tension as the two clubs met for the first time since Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was given an eight-match ban for racially abusing defender Evra.
The “monkey’ incident came after 23 minutes of the highly charged match, which Liverpool won 2-1 to reach the fifth round.Captain Steven Gerrard hit a shot over the bar as Evra closed him down before the camera panned to the fans where the thug, among Liverpool supporters but not wearing club colours, makes his gesture.
Police immediately launched an investigation.Sources at Anfield said he faces a lifetime ban if caught.Match Commander Chief Supt Jon Ward said: “Specialist officers are reviewing match footage as a result of a picture posted on Twitter.“This matter is now under investigation by specialist hate crime detectives and we are working with Liverpool Football Club to identify the man.”
Mr Ward added that there were two arrests during the policing operation and 17 fans – mainly from Manchester – were ejected for spitting on the ground and abusing stewards.The unknown racist was widely condemned from fans of all sides on Twitter last night.Bob Stone posted: “If a Liverpool fan was making monkey gestures, it should be condemned by everyone.“Not acceptable and casts an ugly shadow over a great day.”
Louise Wain agreed: “Liverpool fan making monkey gestures...disgraceful human being.”Arsenal fan Andy Wood said: “Hope Liverpool FC find the moron who was making monkey gestures and ban him for life. One presumes he never celebrates a Glen Johnson goal?”Fans on Liverpool FC’s website also criticised the man.A fan calling himself Liver-01 said: “His actions should equal a life ban and nothing less.“Especially after how much the pressure is on our club in recent times and how the reputation is being affected.”
TheRealSheepHead said: “There were always going to be some insignificant amoeba’s bringing the names of both clubs into disrepute.“That intellectual midget making the monkey gesture can prepare for his life-long banning from Anfield.”Before the game both managers had called for calm.
Sir Alex Ferguson wrote to all Man Utd fans travelling to Anfield calling for them to behave.The United boss asked for the fans to offer “positive, witty and loud” support.And in the match programme Liverpool’s Kenny Dalglish said: “Clearly, passions always run high when the clubs play against each other but as far as we are concerned this is a football match and not about any other issue. We don’t need any sideshows.”
A spokesman for Liverpool FC said: “We are working closely with Merseyside Police to establish the facts and identify the individual involved.“We would urge any supporters with any information to contact either the club or the police.” Dailymirror
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