Former Coventry City youngster Cyrus Christie has said that he has been the subject of racist comments following the Republic Of Ireland's failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
The Cov kid, who now plays his league football with Middlesbrough, has written the following: "Firstly, I'd like to say I am extemely proud to represent my country the Republic Of Ireland and will give everything I can each time I put on the green shirt. I genuinely believe our fans are some of the best in the world.
However, there have been a number of racist comments brought to my attention during the World Cup Qualifying campaign over the last few months and most recently last week.
These comments are not representative of our fans or our sport. We all are deeply upset not to have reached the World Cup Finals and hurting just as much as everyone else.
It is deeply saddening that racism is still part of the game we all enjoy and love.
I strongly believe that we need to stand up against these individuals who do not belong in football or any sport."