COLCHESTER United say they are working with Gillingham FC and Kent Police after alleged racist language was aimed at Junior Tchamadeu during the League Two game between the two sides on Boxing Day.

Referee Sam Purkiss stopped the game and spoke to Tchamadeu along with U's skipper Tommy Smith after the incident, which was also reported to the fourth official.

It allegedly took place just before Tchamadeu scored Colchester's winner.

Tchamadeu gave a statement to police after the game and it is the second time this season Bloomfield has dealt with such an alleged incident, following a similar scenario in the U's 3-1 defeat at Barrow, on November 1.

It is understood that racist language was allegedly also aimed at another Colchester player, during the game at Gillingham.

 

In a statement, Colchester United said: 'Colchester United have reported racist language aimed at U's players.

'It was heard during the first half of the game at Gillingham, and immediately reported to the referee and fourth official.

'Following the game, statements were taken, and Colchester United will work with Gillingham FC and Kent Police as they investigate.

'No person, in football or in our wider society, should have to be subjected to this discrimination.

'If you see or hear any discrimination at a football stadium, report it to the nearest steward or via the Kick It Out Reporting App.'

Gillingham wrote in a statement: 'The club is aware of an alleged racist comment that was made during the Sky Bet League 2 fixture against Colchester United at MEMS Priestfield Stadium on Boxing Day.

'We will conduct our own internal investigation, work alongside the necessary parties and, if required, take appropriate action.

'There is no place for such behaviour in the game and it will not be tolerated at Gillingham Football Club.'

 

It is the second time that Colchester boss Matt Bloomfield has had to deal with such an alleged incident this season.

During his side's game at Barrow on November 1, the U's boss reported racism he heard to the fourth official, and the stadium safety officer and police were notified.

Bloomfield said: "It's the second time after an away game I'm going to have to speak to the police.

"We're talking alleged racial abuse again and I've got no time for it.

"No-one should have to put up with any kind of abuse like that.

"I feel really bad for the lads when they have to go through it and we're supporting Junior with everything he needs.

"It's the second time we've had to deal with it since we've been in the building and there's no place for it in football or in society, "I'm just glad that Junior was able to get the goal and repay that on the pitch.

"The referee handled it well and from what I could see, I think he got the big decisions right."