Adebayo Akinfenwa has been left hurt by what one Fleetwood Town player allegedly called him during Monday night’s League One playoff match.
The much loved footballer played a part in Wycombe Wanderers aggregate win at Adams Park, but has come out with a statement after what was said made him feel “dehumanised as a black man”.
It has left the Chairboys angry, and it is most likely that a formal investigation will be required to look into what happened.
The statement on Wycombe’s website read: “Monday night was one of the highlights of my career with Wycombe so far as we secured our place in the League One Play-Off Final at Wembley.
“However, what should have been an evening of joy and excitement quickly turned into one of anger and frustration.
“Historically I have been subjected to and have experienced abuse across a number of areas and about many things, including my size but also about the colour of my skin.
“Throughout my life I have had to deal with many forms of racial abuse, both overt racism as well as covert racism. As a footballer, I have experienced the same throughout my career, dating back to when I suffered severe and widespread racism playing in Lithuania.
“I have always vowed to stand up and have a voice when it comes to racism, believing that education is ultimately the key to a future without racial discrimination.
“Following the conclusion of the game I learned that a representative of the opposition had repeatedly referred to me as a Fat ‘Water Buffalo’ in a derogatory tone.
“Regardless of whether or not there was deliberate racial intent by using that language and irrespective of the context in which it was used, if we are to make real and long standing change then we must strive to educate each other about these issues. We must work together to ensure those who have not and do not face racial prejudice understand that what may appear to them to be a throwaway remark can have such a big and hurtful impact.
“A Water Buffalo is a dark animal and as a black man I believe that you have dehumanised me by associating me with a dark animal as this was said in a derogatory manner.
“I feel passionately around raising this because we as a sport and as society must wake up. We must do more. We must educate ourselves and understand the potential repercussions of using such language and be aware of the hurt it can cause. The bigger issue to me would be the lack of understanding as to why calling me this term would not be hurtful to me as black man, and this must change.
“Taking a knee, supporting social media campaigns and wearing a logo on our kits is a start, but it is not enough. It will not result in real and long standing change.
“The real work must start now and the only way to move forward collectively is through education.
“We must all play our part.
“#BlackLivesMatter
“Wycombe Wanderers is fully supportive of our players and back all campaigns to end all forms of discrimination. The FA have been made aware of the allegations. Neither the player or club will be making any further statements at this stage.”
Fans gave their reaction with Adebayo Akinfenwa left hurt by what a Fleetwood player called him during the match…
The manager is Joey Barton, I’m not how far that investigation would get
— Jack Richardson (@jaackrichardson) July 8, 2020
I noticed they didn’t seem to field any black players themselves ? I’m proud that our club has always had excellent much loved and respected black players throughout my 33 years supporting Wycombe. Long may it continue. Love and strength to you Bayo ?
— T (@Bluebellewwfc) July 8, 2020
I’m sorry to hear about that, my man. You deserve better. I hate everything about racism. Congrats on your achievement with Wycombe ❤️
— ? chris (@LFChrisJFT96) July 8, 2020
Leader on the pitch and off. Passionate about football and more important issues. Sorry you had to experience this. I hope Fleetwood deal with this – they must know who it is. As you rightly say, education and awareness is the first step. Looking forward to Monday
— Lastonetoarrive (@lastonetoarrive) July 8, 2020
Well said Bayo. One of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. All the best.
— James (@_JamesWood_) July 8, 2020
It’s such a shame that this still exists, not just in a professional sport, but in life in general. I hope the FA investigates fully and that they come down hard on the culprit.
— Gary Broughton (@gbroughton87) July 8, 2020
???? well said Bayo. Sorry that you’ve, once again, had to endure this.
Your WWFC family are behind you all the way ⚽️
This needs investigating @ftfc!— Heather Payne (@chaos_legacy) July 8, 2020
That’s disgusting and has no place in football or society, I really hope this is dealt with , as that person does not deserve the privilege of being a pro footballer or anything else.
— Lee Walker (@LeeWalker1177) July 8, 2020
I remember how lovely you were to me even when I asked for a photo right after you’d finished your workout up at the leisure centre. Cannot say the same about the person in question. Disgraceful ?
— Rachel ? (@PRKLRAWWRRR) July 8, 2020
Brave post fella, you’re doing the right thing ? Sorry for your experience but by sharing it we can continue to educate ?
— John Stone (@18Belts) July 8, 2020
Disgraceful behaviour that must be addressed but as usual amazing, intelligent and inspirational words from a very special guy who I’m proud to say is a role model for my little one! Keep up the good work ?
— Adam Cooper (@apcwwfc) July 8, 2020
Nothing but love for you and how you play the game. It’s a joy to see you in a role that allows you to use your experiences within the game to help those starting out.
Those that know your story celebrate you accomplishments. Keep fighting the fight xx— Gav Ellis (@GavEllis_IOW) July 8, 2020
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