Man arrested over alleged racist abuse at Tyne-Wear derby

A 45-year-old man has been arrested following allegations of racist abuse at last month’s Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland.

Northumbria Police said the Gateshead man was detained in connection with an alleged incident at a Premier League match at St James’s Park in Newcastle on March 22.

A force spokesman said the man was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offense on Tuesday and has since been released on bail pending further investigation.

Detective Inspector Phil Guard said: “Racist abuse has absolutely no place in football or our society and we will not tolerate such behaviour.

“As a result of proactive police investigations and close cooperation with both clubs and fans, a suspect has been arrested.

“They have been released on bail with strong conditions while the investigation continues.”

Mr Guard said: “We will continue to work with clubs, fans and partner organizations to combat all forms of crime at football matches.”

Referee Anthony Taylor briefly paused play in the early stages of the second half after an incident was reported to him and spoke to both managers and club officials.

Newcastle later said in a statement that they were aware of a report of racism by a visiting player towards a member of the audience.

Sunderland later praised defender Lutsharel Geertruida for “showing courage and leadership in reporting this incident to the match officials”.

In the 52nd minute, Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka approached Taylor when play was stopped due to an injury to Newcastle’s Sven Botman.

Sunderland won the match 2-1 to complete a domestic double against their rivals this season, after defeating the Magpies 1-0 at the Stadium of Light in December.

Anthony Gordon had put Newcastle ahead early, but Sunderland fought back to equalize through Chemsdine Talbi in the 57th minute.

Sunderland’s striker Brian Brobbey earned his team all three points with his victory in the 90th minute.