'Something needs to change!' - Chelsea defender, Reece James becomes the latest footballer to reveal vile racist abuse

Chelsea defender, Reece James is the latest footballer to reveal vile racist messages he received on social media.

 

The England international shared a screenshot on his Instagram account featuring several racist messages sent to him with the caption “something needs to change!" written over the messages.

After he revealed the abuse on Friday night, Chelsea released a statement condemning the messages the 21-year-old received on social media.

 

"Everyone at Chelsea FC is disgusted with the racist abuse Reece James received on social media on Friday evening. This club finds racism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We totally condemn it," the club said.

 

"In sport, as in wider society, we must create a social media environment where hateful and discriminatory actions are as unacceptable online as they would be on the street.

 

"We add our voice to those urging social media platforms and regulatory authorities to take stronger, more effective, and more urgent action against this despicable behaviour.

 

"Something needs to change and it needs to change now."

 

Earlier on Friday, West Brom revealed they had contacted police over an alleged racist message sent to midfielder Romaine Sawyers.

 

Manchester United players Axel Tuanzebe and Anthony Martial were also racially abused on social media after Wednesday's home defeat by Sheffield United.