Peterborough’s Ivan Toney asks fans to stop singing controversial chant
The chant perpetuates a racial stereotype and Toney has asked fans to create a ‘family version’
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Peterborough striker Ivan Toney has asked fans to stop singing a controversial chant that perpetuates a racial stereotype.
Toney has said he is not offended by the chant, but has asked supporters to create a “family version” so younger supporters can join in.
The 23-year-old joined Peterborough from Newcastle last summer.
“I want to thank the supporters for the way they have backed me since I arrived at the football club,” Toney said in a statement posted to the offical club website.
“It is great to feel loved by the fans.
“Whilst the song is not offensive to me, it would be great to hear a new family version of the song so all of the young supporters in the stadium can join in too.”
Manchester United fans have previously been told to stop singing a similar chant about former striker Romelu Lukaku, now of Inter MIlan.
The lyrics to that song were “offensive and discriminatory”, according to racism charity Kick It Out.
Last week, Liverpool condemned a banner unfurled by fans featuring a caricature of Divock Origi that perpetuated a similar stereotype.
A spokesperson for the club said after the incident in Genk: ”The club condemns the highly offensive banner displayed prior to kick-off.
“To be clear, the image used perpetuated a racist stereotype and this is completely unacceptable.
“We acted swiftly to have the banner removed and are now working with local authorities and the stadium team in Genk to identify those responsible.
“Any subsequent action will be taken in keeping with our sanctions process.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments