Swansea City midfielder Yan Dhanda has criticised Facebook for their approach to online abuse, after being sent abusive messages.
Dhanda, a British-Asian, was sent messages on Instagram - owned by Facebook - after the Swans' defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup.
“The punishment given to the perpetrator actually gives more fuel for hate as now they know for sure there are no firm consequences to their actions online," Dhanda wrote on Twitter.
“His dm’s [sic] may be restricted but the ramifications of his actions continue to ripple through our community.”
Yan Dhanda
Yan Dhanda was supported by his club, in a statement released after the announcement from Facebook.
“Swansea City is shocked and surprised by the leniency shown by Facebook towards one of their users who racially abused a member of our playing squad," the club said in a statement.
"The abhorrent level of abuse that we have witnessed this week means that once again we seek stronger action from social media companies in order to stamp this type of toxic behaviour out and we fully back the EFL’s open letter that was sent to Twitter and Facebook in light of recent events.
“It is appalling that Facebook cannot empathise more with the victim of such offensive messages and Yan Dhanda continues to have our full support at the football club as we work with South Wales Police to assist in their ongoing investigation.”
Steve Cooper
Dhanda received the support of his manager, Steve Cooper.
“The level of abuse he received was disgusting and I cannot put into words how angry I am that one of my players has suffered at the hands of somebody who thinks that racism is acceptable," Cooper told the club website.
“What people don’t see is the aftermath of how people are affected. Yan was visibly upset and angry but it goes beyond that. His family are affected, those closest to him are hurt and the ripples go far wider than just a media headline.
“Yan and I have spoken several times about his heritage – and the pride he feels in representing his community is evident in everything he says and does. To that extent, he is a superb role model and someone who takes that responsibility seriously.
“Everybody at the club stands shoulder to shoulder with Yan against racism or any form of discrimination. It has been really tough for him but his strength of character will stand him in good stead.
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