Neil Etheridge: Birmingham City goalkeeper proud of his anti-racism stance

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Birmingham City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge reported the incident to match referee Keith Stroud alongside Blues team-mate Dion Sanderson at Ewood Park.

Birmingham City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge says he was proud of his anti-racism stance during Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round draw with Blackburn Rovers.

It was investigated by both clubs and match officials, while Lancashire Police issued a statement on Monday requesting mobile phone footage.

“Racism and all forms of discrimination should not be tolerated,” he said.

Speaking on Twitter after the Blues lost 1-0 in Tuesday night’s replay, Philippines international Etheridge added: “Extremely disappointed with the result of yesterday’s game. Gutted to be kicked out of the FA Cup.

“I know that one individual does not speak on behalf of an entire fan base or everyone in society. I am proud of what I have done to bring to light, once again, an ongoing issue. that we all have a responsibility to tackle it head-on.

“We can’t eradicate it overnight, but if we can all continue to do our part to educate those out there, I hope and pray that my child and our children can grow up in a world better.”

“We didn’t deserve to lose”

Blues boss John Eustace was the first to condemn the reported abuse on Saturday, saying: “There is no place at all in society, let alone in football, for this.”

Eustace was also disappointed to see the Blues lose for the sixth time in eight games since Christmas, their only victory being the delayed 2-1 third round win at Forest Green – especially as it was such a cruel goal in extension from- loan Auston Trusty.

“It was bad luck for Trusty, who just put her knee on the cross,” Eustace told BBC Radio WM.

“But he’s a cracking guy, who’s been a great servant to the club so far.

“We didn’t deserve to lose. And, if we keep playing like this, we will win more than we lose.

“You can see we’re getting our rhythm back, but we didn’t take the risks we created. We need to be more clinical in the final third.

“But it was the first time in a long time that we had a clean sheet in 90 minutes and we were only beaten by an unfortunate own goal.”

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