‘Racist abuse’ leaves Birmingham goalkeeper ‘shaken up’ as FA Cup clash halted

On Jan 29, 2023

Neil Etheridge was left ‘shaken up’ by alleged racial abuse during Birmingham City’s FA Cup clash against Blackburn on Saturday (January 28).

The 32-year-old, an experienced Philippines international, reported to referee Keith Stroud that he was racially abused by a rival fan – with the match briefly halted.

Etheridge was left shaken by the incident according to his manager, with Blackburn saying they are aware of the allegation and Birmingham also offering a statement.

City boss John Eustace said: “Neil was racially abused, which is bang out of order. There is simply no room for that in society.

“It’s really disappointing that this happened. We don’t condone it at all. The referee will report it and it will be for the authorities to take action.

“It’s a very serious issue. Neil was shaken up after the game. The lads got right behind him and made sure he was OK.”

Neil Etheridge spoke to match referee Keith Stroud at the time
(Image: Getty Images)

Birmingham drew at Blackburn in the FA Cup Fourth Round
(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Blackburn said: “We are aware of allegations of racist abuse. The club has a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of abuse and discrimination, and will take the strongest possible action against anyone identified committing such offences.”

Birmingham’s statement said: “We will assist the FA and authorities accordingly. There is no room for racism in the game.”

The fixture finished 2-2 following goals from Reda Khadra, Jordan James, Bradley Dack and Joe Rankin-Costello, with their replay set to take place in early February.