Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur have put their rivalry aside to stand together after Jayden Bogle was subjected to disgraceful racial abuse on social media following Saturday’s meeting at Elland Road.
The Leeds defender became the target of abusive messages after a controversial first-half incident involving Mathys Tel. What should have remained a debate about a refereeing decision has instead become a reminder of the unacceptable behaviour players continue to face online.
Both clubs have now issued strong statements condemning the abuse and making clear that Bogle has their support.
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Leeds issue strong statement after Bogle abuse
Leeds confirmed on Sunday evening that Bogle had received racist messages following their 1-0 victory over Tottenham. The club also shared screenshots of some of the abuse, with the player’s permission, to highlight its severity.
A statement from the club read:
“Leeds United Football Club are appalled at the disgusting, racist social media abuse Jayden Bogle suffered following Saturday’s Premier League victory against Tottenham Hotspur.
“Leeds United condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. There is no place for racism in football or society.
“The club will work with the Premier League and relevant authorities to identify the individuals and push for the strongest possible action to be taken against them.
“Jayden has the full and unconditional support of the club and his teammates, and we all stand with him at this time.
“Nobody should ever be subjected to racist abuse.”
Tottenham offer support to Leeds in identifying culprits
Tottenham also released a statement expressing their disgust at the treatment of the Leeds defender, despite the controversy surrounding the incident that sparked the backlash.
“We are disgusted to hear that Leeds United’s Jayden Bogle has been subjected to racist abuse on social media following our Premier League fixture at Elland Road on Saturday.
“Racism is abhorrent behaviour for which there is no place in football or society.
“We have offered Leeds United our support in identifying those responsible, and we will pursue every available avenue to ensure they are identified and face the full consequences of their actions.
“Regardless of club allegiances and on-pitch results, no-one should ever stand alone in the face of this.”
The abuse followed Bogle’s challenge on Tel, for which referee John Brooks awarded a foul but no card. VAR reviewed the incident and upheld the decision not to send the Leeds defender off.
Tottenham’s frustration with that call does not change the issue here. No refereeing decision can ever justify racist abuse, and both clubs have made clear that those responsible must be held accountable.
