Football: Irish probe Clichy racism claim

LIMERICK: An investigation has been launched after Manchester City defender Gael Clichy claimed he was the victim of racism after a banana was thrown onto the pitch during his side’s friendly win over Limerick. Police and stadium officials are studying CCTV footage in an attempt to identify a spectator alleged to have thrown the missile onto the pitch during the Premier League champions’ 4-0 pre-season friendly victory at Thomond Park on Sunday. It is understood Manchester City made no formal complaint over the incident, which was mentioned by Clichy via his Twitter account. “How sad to see ‘bananas thrown on the pitch’ tonight,” said the Frenchman. “Despite knowing people around the world need food. No words for this.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2012.