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OFFENDED: Harewood was left upset from a fan's comment

BARNSLEY’S VICTORY over MK Dons in the FA Cup was overshadowed by claims of racism.

Police have followed up the allegations – concerning a spectator aiming abuse at Marlon Harewood – and have interviewed the forward, who is aware of the incident and said he is content to let MK Dons handle the matter.

The fan at the centre of the storm underwent police questioning after the match on Saturday (February 16). The Dons have said they will ban the spectator from their stadium for life, if found guilty of racially insulting the centre-forward.

Harewood, a former West Ham player, was sat on the bench when the alleged abuse took place at the end of the match which the away side won 3-1. Harewood’s manager, David Flitcroft, was seen to react furiously to the comment and gesture made by the supporter.

Sources close to Harewood said the striker was left upset by the comment aimed at him, however, police have said they currently have no evidence to suggest the gesture was of a racist nature – but MK Dons are going through CCTV footage covering the relevant section of the ground, which could provide more evidence for the police.

The Buckinghamshire club said they would launch their own investigation into the incident.

Harewood scored Barnsley’s second goal, before Flitcroft subbed him off at half time.

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