FAI condemns 'vile and horrific racist abuse' of U15 Irish players online

THE FAI has condemned  "vile and horrific racist abuse" aimed at players from the Irish men's Under 15 international squad on multiple social media outlets.

"The FAI takes the protection of all Irish players seriously. We abhor such ignorant and unacceptable online abuse of any player and we are working with the Gardai, the social media companies, the families of the players and their clubs to ensure that this matter is dealt with in the appropriate manner," an FAI statement said.

The FAI also confirmed that it has spoken with the players and their families and offered them our full support.

FAI Chief Executive Jonathan Hill said: "There is no place for racism in football. To see such young players targeted in this manner is particularly sickening and the FAI will do everything in our power to ensure the perpetrators are identified and held responsible for their disgraceful actions". 

FAI President Gerry McAnaney added: "I was proud to see these players represent Ireland in their Under 15 international against Latvia in Whitehall on Tuesday and proud of the delight they took in representing their country. I can assure their families that as an Association we fully support all our players. We cannot tolerate such behaviour in society and sport".

The FAI said it would not be commenting further, whilst the matter is under investigation.