Kick It Out 'depressed' by racist abuse during Champions League clash

Anti-racism group Kick It Out have released a statement expressing their concern at the alleged monkey chanting targeted at Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure.

The midfielder is said to have been subjected to racist abuse in Russia by CSKA Moscow fans during yesterday's 2-1 win in the Champions League.

A statement from Kick It Out said: "First and foremost the support of Kick It Out is with Yaya and everyone associated with the club. He has been brave and proactive not only by speaking out after the game, but by reporting it to the referee too.

"It was the referee's role to then stop the game which would have dealt with the problem instantly. This was a key failing of last night. When abuse is officially logged like this, the offending club should be charged and an automatic partial stadium closure by UEFA can be explored.

"A second offence could mean a full stadium closure. Things are not perfect in this country, but this type of abuse is a depressing throwback and raises questions around the suitability of Russia as World Cup hosts."

City have lodged an official compliant to UEFA.