This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has spoken out against online abuse, calling for a crackdown on racist and threatening messages directed at players.
On the eve of the team's clash with Crystal Palace, Solskjaer told reporters that players need more protection from social media companies, citing the recent abuse faced by midfielder Paul Pogba after he missed a penalty in a Premier League draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“We need to protect individuals. When there’s death threats and racism, it’s serious allegations, serious incidents,” Solskjaer said.
He added that social media companies must take responsibility for allowing hate speech to spread, saying “social media is a place where people can hide behind fake identities.”
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has also spoken out against online abuse, urging social media companies to take action after 21-year-old striker Tammy Abraham was targeted after the team’s UEFA Super Cup loss to Liverpool.
Manchester United are holding talks with other clubs over the transfer of Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez, who played in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Sheffield United on Tuesday.
