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Chelsea have issued a statement defending Conor Gallagher after the midfielder faced heavy criticism when a video of him went viral on social media.
The video in question shows Gallagher lining up in the Stamford Bridge tunnel before his team’s Premier League clash against Burnley last week. A young mascot is seen holding his hand out for a high five from Gallagher but the midfielder merely taps his shoulder and turns to another mascot behind him.
The video led to Gallagher being accused of racism, with a number of fans on social media claiming he snubbed the first mascot because he is black. However, Chelsea have issued a statement denying such talk and said the video was taken out of context.
“Chelsea Football Club is aware of a video clip circulating on social media from Saturday’s fixture against Burnley, which has been taken considerably out of context,” an official statement from the club read.
“The subsequent level of abuse and defamatory comments directed towards Conor Gallagher is completely unacceptable.
“We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.”
The 24-year-old will hope to shrug off the criticism when Chelsea take on Manchester United in the Premier League on Thursday. The Blues are unbeaten in their last five matches but picked up a disappointing 2-2 draw against 10-man Burnley last time out.