Chelsea hail Eniola Aluko after ‘bullying’ claims

Chelsea have “commended” Eniola Aluko for “speaking of her experiences” after she accused England boss Mark Sampson of “bullying and discrimination”.

Sampson, 34, has been cleared of wrongdoing by two investigations and vehemently denies the claims made by former England forward Aluko.

But anti-racism group Kick It Out says the Football Association should conduct “a comprehensive independent review” .

It says claims by Aluko, 30, on Monday “throw new light on the allegations”.

Speaking with BBC, the Chelsea Ladies striker claimed Sampson made a “racist comment” about her family in Nigeria being infected with the Ebola virus. Sampson vehemently denies saying this.

A Chelsea spokesman has said the club “finds any and all forms of discrimination abhorrent and it is imperative that players are supported when coming forward to speak about these issues”.

Aluko was supported by former England team-mate Lianne Sanderson, who tweeted: “I am so proud of one of my best friends, Eni Aluko. I have stood with you through this and I will continue to do so.”

Former FA director of corporate affairs Simon Johnson tweeted: “Well done to Eni Aluko for speaking out. No-one should have to justify why they perceive a comment as racist. Sad it came to this, but brave.”

Anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out said the situation was now “one of utter confusion with claims and counter-claims”.

It added: “Kick It Out urges the FA to undertake a comprehensive and independent review of the processes involved in the original complaint made by Aluko up to the final point of the independent investigation by Katharine Newton QC.

“This is so they can take on board any lessons learned, to remedy any deficiencies identified and to ensure it has an operational culture that treats any individual, whatever their background, equally, fairly and with dignity and respect.

“The FA must ensure a situation like this will never happen again in order to build trust, confidence and credibility.”