Racism: St Johnstone blasts fans over abuse of Jaiyesimi
Scottish league side St Johnstone have hauled pebbles on some of their fans after they took to the social media to racially abuse on Nigerian-born British footballer, Diallang Jaiyesimi following their loss to Glasgow Rangers on Wednesday.
Diallang Jaiyesimi started in the Premiership game in the heart of St Johnstone’s midfield.
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The 25-year-old midfielder was sent off in the 33rd minute of the match for a lunge on Rangers’ John Lundstram.
Before the marching orders handed the Jaiyesimi, Rangers playing in front of their home fans had short into the lead in the 28th minute thanks to Nigeria international Cyriel Dressers.
Interestingly, St Johnstone were able to prevent more goals with a man down until in the 85th minute when James Tavernier sealed the win from the penalty spot.
The defeat dropped Johnstone to the 9th spot of the 12-team Scottish Premiership while the win took Rangers two steps closer to first-placed Celtic.
Hence, most fans of Johnstone were unhappy with Diallang Jaiyesimi and took to social media, especially X, to racially abuse the Nigerian-born midfielder.
In reaction to the racial attacks, his club issued a statement to stress that they are firmly standing with the football star who is on loan at the club from Charlton.
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They announced that they would report the “unacceptable behaviour” to the police for further investigation.
They said: “We are aware of a racist tweet circulating that was aimed at Diallang Jaiyesimi tonight.
“We will pass this on to Police Scotland to investigate. Say no to racism.”
Jaiyesimi joined St Johnstone on a season-long loan from Championship club, Charlton on September 1, 2023. Since then, he has played in 7 Scottish Premiership games and has scored a goal.
Jaiyesimi was born in Southwark, England to Nigerian parents on 7 May 1998 but hasn’t played for any England youth team, thus, he is still eligible to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria.