Football clubs, mayors and police forces unite against racism

Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United have put out a statement to condemn racist abuse after another week where footballers were targeted online.

They've come together ahead of games between the Manchester and Merseyside teams in the Premier League this weekend.

'We stand shoulder to shoulder in saying there is no room for racism, hate or any form of discrimination in our beautiful game. It should not happen and it must stop'

This weekend Manchester United play Everton and Liverpool host Manchester City in the Premier League. It is also the culmination of Greater Manchester Hate Crime Awareness Week.

The joint statement is also outlined in full below:

"This weekend the four Premier League clubs of Manchester and Liverpool play each other in our two city-regions.

"Today Manchester United, Everton, Manchester City and Liverpool have come together to support Hate Crime Awareness Week in Greater Manchester.

"Our four great North West clubs are united with the Mayors of Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region, and both Greater Manchester Police and Merseyside Police. We condemn the racist abuse that too many players, officials and supporters continue to encounter, most recently on social media platforms.

"We stand shoulder to shoulder in saying there is no room for racism, hate or any form of discrimination in our beautiful game. It should not happen and it must stop."