Police Probe 'Racist' Football Fan Gesture

Police are investigating after a football fan was caught on camera apparently making a monkey gesture at a black Premier League player.

Sunderland have promised to help identify the supporter who appeared to make the racist gesture during the club's 4-2 defeat at home against West Brom on Saturday.

A photograph of Belgium international Romelu Lukaku - on loan from Chelsea - celebrating after scoring his side's third goal shows a Sunderland fan reacting angrily in the stands behind.

The fan, in a grey flat cap, seems to be mimicking a monkey, in contrast to others around him who remain seated with their arms crossed, looking unhappy.

The incident bore similarities to one at Stamford Bridge earlier this season when Manchester United's Danny Welbeck was abused by a Chelsea fan.

A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: "Police are carrying out inquiries after a report of racist abuse was received at the Sunderland vs West Brom match on Saturday.

"A report was received at 10.10pm on Saturday, November 24."

A Sunderland spokesman said the club had a "zero-tolerance" policy towards racism.