Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri said he had been the target of racism from Preston Montenegrin player Milutin Osmajic during his side’s 0-0 draw at Deepdale ons Saturday.
Hannibal has expressed anger during the Championship match after a substitute change that he reported directly to his manager Parker.
“I will not be silent about what happened today. I will always call out racism whenever I hear or see it.” Hannibal said.
“That is the only way we change as a sport and a society. I am a strong person but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch.” he added.
The FA launches an investigation following the Saturday lunchtime match between Hannibal and Osmajic where contentious actions led to post-game turmoil including Burnley manager Scott Parker confronting the referee.
During his match interview Burnley manager described the moment he saw his player was hugely distressed so he tried to understand the incident because Hannibal expressed strong emotional reactions.
“Something inappropriate was said to Hannibal which he reported. You could clearly see he was very distressed and in that moment we tried to get some context into what exactly had happened because he was very emotional.” Parker said.
“He explained to me what was said and at that moment we just wanted to work out how he was and where he was in his head space. It will go down to due process now.” Parker added.
In a statement, Preston said: “Preston North End are aware of a complaint that has been made by Hannibal Mejbri and Burnley FC to today’s match officials with regards to an allegation of a comment made by Milutin Osmajic during today’s Sky Bet Championship fixture at Deepdale.”
Sheffield United claimed the Championship summit after Anel Ahmedhodzic scored in the 79th minute to defeat Luton Town 1-0 and push Burnley off their peak position.
