A MAN arrested for alleged racial abuse of Reading’s Garath McCleary in Monday’s night’s FA Cup replay with Bradford faces a lifetime ban, according to the Bantams chairman Mark Lawn.
Former Oxford City striker McCleary, who hails from Blackbird Leys, made Reading’s opening goal and scored the second in their 3-0 quarter-final replay win at the Madejski Stadium.
He was targeted when he later took a corner and the winger reported the incident to match officials shortly before half-time.
“There is no place for that in the game, it is unacceptable,” Lawn said.
“I would think we’re looking at a lifetime ban if he’s found guilty, but that decision can only be made after consultation with the board.”
Reading confirmed in a short statement after the game that the incident had been reported to the police, while Reading manager Steve Clarke said McCleary had been “upset by something”.
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A brief statement from Thames Valley Police read: “A 36-year-old man from Bradford was arrested on suspicion of indecent/racial chanting at a designated football match (Football Offences Act 1991) and he has been bailed until April 16.”
Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out praised the handling of the situation and hope McCleary’s actions will help other players.
Rishi Jain, Kick It Out’s Football League clubs development officer, said: “We hope Garath’s actions will increase confidence amongst players to register complaints when they are the victim of discrimination during a match.”
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