MERSEYSIDE POLICE have launched an investigation into an alleged series of offensive tweets aimed at two Everton players after Saturday’s Merseyside Derby.
The social media posts are thought to have targeted Jordan Pickford and Richarlison.
Jordan Pickford is thought to be one player subjected to ‘offensive’ tweets after the derby Credit: Reuters
Richarlison, also of Everton, is said to be at the centre of the alleged abuseCredit: Getty Images – Getty
On a Monday, a police statement read: “We are currently investigating a number of offensive tweets made in relation to two Everton footballers.
“The language used in the tweets is totally unacceptable and we are taking the reports extremely seriously.
“Those who use the internet to target others, and who commit criminal offences such as making threats or committing a hate crime in doing so, are not beyond the law.
“Detectives are making enquiries to identify the individuals who posted the tweets and where we identify offences we will take action to bring those responsible to justice.”
Both players were involved in major incidents in the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.
In the fifth minute, a looping cross fell in the six-yard box that Pickford contested with Virgil van Dijk.
A scissor tackle from the goalkeeper wiped out the Liverpool star, leading to his substitution and a potentially lengthy stay in the treatment room.
As van Dijk was offside, a penalty was not awarded and Pickford also escaped a red card.
Richarlison was sent off late in the derby draw after a studs-up challenge on Thiago AlcantaraCredit: BT Sport
A late lunge from Pickford on Virgil van Dijk injured the Liverpool starCredit: PA:Press Association
VAR officials decided not to punish the England No1 and no retrospective action is being taken by the FA.
Their decision comes as neither Liverpool nor van Dijk placed a timeframe on his recovery from an operation following the challenge.
Meanwhile, Thiago avoided serious injury in the tackle with Richarlison.
Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Ajax will come too soon for the Spaniard, but his absence is not expected to be considerable.
After the draw, which kept Everton top of the Premier League table, Richarlison publicly apologised for his actions.
The 23-year-old stated: “Everyone that knows my background knows that I was never a violent player.
“What happened today was a fatality from sheer over-dedication. I did not enter that dispute with the intention of hurting Thiago.
How Liverpool have fared with and without Van Dijk
“When I saw that the crash was going to happen, I picked up my foot and hit him with my knee in the pass, which was inevitable due to the speed of the play.
“I already sent a message to him apologizing and I also do it here publicly. I hope he hasn’t been hurt and that everything is fine.
“I also apologise to my team-mates, my club and my fans for leaving them with one less at the end of the game.”
Jurgen Klopp says he doesn’t know how serious Van Dijk’s injury is and discusses the off-side situation
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
