Brentford 'disgusted' by racist abuse aimed at Ivan Toney

Ivan Toney scored his 14th Premier League goal of the season against Arsenal
Ivan Toney scored his 14th Premier League goal of the season against Arsenal / Clive Rose/GettyImages
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Brentford have condemned the "abusive, racist messages" sent to Ivan Toney in the aftermath of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

The 26-year-old bagged his 14th goal of the Premier League season to earn Brentford a well-deserved point at the Emirates Stadium, but his achievements have again been overshadowed by a barrage of online abuse.

In a statement released on their official website, Brentford said they are "disgusted" at the messages aimed towards Toney on his Instagram account - sadly not the first time this season the former Newcastle striker has been targeted.

"We are disgusted and saddened that Ivan has had to deal with this yet again," Brentford said.

"We will not tolerate it and we will do everything we can to pursue the individuals involved.

"Ivan was subject to similar abuse in October last year, and the perpetrator is now facing the consequences in court.

"How many times does this need to happen?"

In January, a man apologised to Toney in court after admitting a charge of sending an offensive message, and will be sentenced next month.

"We call on football fans everywhere to relish the competition and rivalry that exists between us, but to respect and embrace our differences and celebrate the diversity that exists throughout the Premier League," Brentford added.

"There is no room for racism."