Chesterfield FC condemns racist Twitter post directed at Mansfield Town player - as police identify 'person responsible'

The vile message was sent to Stags’ British-Asian defender Mal Benning on Monday from an individual with the Twitter handle @SheridanOut and claiming to be called Rhys.

Chesterfield FC has this morning condemned the post – which has since been deleted – and has urged anyone with information to contact the club or police.

A spokesman said: "Racist comments simply cannot be tolerated and any information we receive which helps police identify the person who has sent this message would be greatly appreciated.

"Chesterfield FC Community Trust does much to educate groups about diversity, race and equality, delivering workshops in Chesterfield and north Derbyshire.

"The club and the trust also work in partnership with Kick It Out to promote inclusion and respect in football."

Benning highlighted the racist post on Twitter and wrote: “Not experienced much ‘racism’ as one of very few Asian players in the professional game.

“But there is no need for this no matter what race you are or what team you support.”

He also tagged in anti-racism organisation Kick It Out and the Professional Footballers' Association in his tweet.

PC Adam Collins, who deals with policing at Chesterfield FC, confirmed on Twitter this morning that the person believed to be responsible has been identified and ‘will be dealt with’.

– Anyone with any relevant information should email [email protected].