ENGLAND star Jess Carter says she has been the victim of vile racist abuse online during the UEFA Women’s Euros.
The Lionesses defender, who has 49 caps for England, has announced she will be “taking a step back from social media” as a result.
In an Instagram post, the 27-year-old player said: “From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse.
“Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result I don’t agree or think it’s ok to target someone’s appearance or race.”
She said she was stepping back to “protect myself in a bid to keep my focus on helping the team any way I can”.
“Hopefully speaking out will make the people writing this abuse think twice so that others won’t have to deal with it,” she added.
Carter also said that England have made some “historic changes with the Lionesses squad” that she was “so proud” to be part of and she hopes that by speaking out “it will make another positive change for all”.
The Lionesses posted a message from the squad this afternoon with the caption: “We stand with Jess, and all #Lionesses players past and present who have suffered racism.”
It reads: “No one should have to endure such vile abuse, be that in football or any walk of life.
“Representing our country is the greatest honour. It’s not right that while we are doing that some of us are treated differently simply because of the colour of our skin.”
The Lionesses also said that until now, they have chosen to take the knee before matches.
“It is clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism. We have agreed as a squad to remain standing before kick-off on Tuesday,” they said.
FA CEO Mark Bullingham also condemned the “abhorrent” racist abuse Jess Carter has suffered and have contacted the police.
He said: “Our priority is Jess and giving her all the support she needs.
“We strongly condemn those responsible for this disgusting racism.
“As soon as we were made aware of the racist abuse Jess received, we immediately contacted UK police.
“They are in touch with the relevant social media platform, and we are working with police to ensure those responsible for this hate crime are brought to justice.”
Carter has started all four of England’s games at the tournament.
The defending champions face Italy on Tuesday night in Geneva for the Euros semi-finals.
If they win and reach the final, they will face either Germany or Spain, who play on Wednesday.
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