Cagliari vow to ban fans who racially abused Romelu Lukaku and help end 'plague that affects football'

The club statement pledged solidarity with the Inter Milan striker after repeat scenes at Sardegna Arena
Targeted: Romelu Lukaku
EPA
Alex Young @alexwsyoung2 September 2019

Cagliari have vowed to ban supporters who racially abused Romelu Lukaku, describing the scenes as "one of the worst plagues" in the sport.

The Inter Milan striker was targeted by home fans as he took, and scored, a penalty in his second Sere A game since his move from Manchester United.

Earlier on Monday, Lukaku called on those at the top of the game and social media companies to take action, saying the situation is getting worse.

This, however, was not the first time Cagliari fans have behaved like this in recent seasons, having also racially abused Moise Kean, now with Everton, Juve's Blaise Matuidi and Ghanaian midfielder Sulley Muntari when he was with Pescara in 2017.

"Cagliari Football firmly rejects what happened Sunday night at the Sardinia Arena during the game vs. Inter Milan," a statement read.

"The Club underlines - once again - its intention to identify, isolated and ban those ignorant individuals whose shameful actions and behavior are completely against those values ​​that Cagliari Football strongly promotes in all their initiatives. Every single day.

"Cagliari vs Inter Milan it was our right "curva Futura" - the first dedicated sector in Italy built to host children - both Inter Milan and Cagliari supporters enjoyed a lovely evening together in the name of their passion for football."

It continues: "Full solidarity to Romelu Lukaku and even stronger commitment to annihilating one of the worst plagues that affects football and our world in general.

"However, we are aware that the technology is not enough, we believe our commitment to real support by the football stakeholders: starting from all the true supporters, to the stewards in the stands, from police and security agents, passing to media and as well through Serie A and FIGC League.

"Cagliari Football is asking everyone to help you win a battle that involves everyone. No one excluded."

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