Rangers: Police Scotland investigating online abuse of Fernandes and Gassama

In a statement of support for their players, Rangers said: “For any player, opening a phone and seeing abuse linked to the color of their skin is simply unacceptable.

“The accounts appear to be anonymous and not linked to the club in any way. This may make taking action more difficult, but it does not diminish the seriousness of what happened, or the responsibility of the platform in question.”

“Our immediate priority is the safety of the players involved. We are in direct contact with El Gedi and Mane and have offered our full support now and through any future judicial process.”

“We are proud that they stood up for themselves by highlighting this vile abuse last night.

He added: “Mane and Guidi represent Rangers with commitment and pride. Every time they step on the pitch, they do so on behalf of this club and our fans.”

“Many fans have already sent messages of support. We welcome this support. It reflects what this club stands for: pride in the shirt, respect for those who wear it, and a commitment to standing together.”

Last month, Livingstone wrote to the Scottish Football Association about an alleged racist comment directed at striker Jeremy Bukela during the Premier League defeat by Aberdeen.

After Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri and Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana both received racist abuse on Instagram.

On Sunday, Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodari and Sunderland winger Romaine Mundle were also subjected to racist abuse on social media.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman, Sir Keir Starmer, described the abuse as “abhorrent”, adding: “The Prime Minister has supported footballers before who have had the courage to come forward and denounce discrimination and racism, and this is no different.”

The spokesman noted that Premier League clubs said they wanted to work with social media sites, including Meta, the Premier League and the police, to identify those responsible.

“Mita said she will continue to work to protect people from abuse,” he said. “Ministers will hold them to account to ensure this happens.”

Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out said it had been a “horrific weekend” but “the sad truth is we know it happens regularly”.

In November, a BBC investigation found that more than 2,000 highly offensive social media posts – including death and rape threats – were sent about managers and players in the Premier League and Women’s Super League in one weekend.