Dundee United launch investigation into racist abuse of Hibs player

Dundee United have launched an investigation after Hibernian player Jair Tavares appeared to be subjected to racist abuse during United’s 1-0 win at Tannadice on Tuesday.

In footage posted on social media by former Hibs midfielder and Livingston assistant manager Marvin Bartley, a racially aggravated obscenity is heard as Tavares goes to retrieve the ball near the touchline.

In a statement, United said: “The footage appeared to transmit either racist or other derogatory language used within the stadium.

“We are currently investigating the incident and are working with all the relevant stakeholders to isolate the area of the stadium where the audio has been picked up and determine the content clearly.”

Earlier, Hibs said they had approached United to encourage an investigation be launched.

“Racist or discriminatory behaviour towards any player, official, staff member or supporter is completely unacceptable, and has no place in our game or wider society,” added the Edinburgh club.

Bartley, who is also the equality and diversity advisor to the Scottish Football Association, tweeted a video of the incident.

“I tried and tried to convince myself that I had misheard this but after listening multiple times I’m unfortunately right. To hear someone shout this and abuse someone for their skin colour breaks my heart,” he said.

“We’re now at a point where either the authorities do something about it or they simply tell us they don’t care.

“I wish I could explain the pain and heartache this sort of stuff causes but it’s impossible to put into words. My heart genuinely goes out to Jair, all he was trying to do was his job and getting the ball to speed up play.”