The FA are looking into allegations Adebayo Akinfenwa was racially abused by a Fleetwood Town personnel.
This offence is alleged to have taken place not long after the 2-2 draw at Adams Park on Monday night.
Akinfenwa released a statement on his social media page on Wednesday and was alleged to have been called a ‘fat water buffalo’ multiple times.
FA to Investigate Adebayo Akinfenwa’s Racism Claim
Akinfenwa Statement
The Wycombe striker took to Twitter to explain the situation.
“Monday night was one of the highlights of my career with Wycombe so far as we secured our place in the League One play-off final at Wembley,” the 38-year-old said.
“But, what should have been an evening of joy and excitement quickly turned into one of anger and frustration.
“Historically I have been subjected to, and have experienced abuse across a number of areas and about many things. This includes my size but also about the colour of my skin.
“Following the conclusion of the game, I learned that a representative of the opposition had repeatedly referred to me as a Fat ‘Water Buffalo’ in a derogatory tone.
“I believe it dehumanises me as a black man by associating me to a Water Buffalo. A dark animal, in a derogatory manner.”
“I feel passionately around raising this because we as a sport and as society must wake up. We must do more.
We must educate ourselves and understand the potential repercussions of using such language and be aware of the hurt it can cause.
The bigger issue to me would be the lack of understanding as to why calling me this term would not be hurtful to me as black man, and this must change.
The FA Will Look Into the Allegation
Wycombe have stated they are in full support of their player, and have also vowed to back all campaigns to end all forms of discrimination.
The FA have stated that they have been made aware of the allegation. They will begin to look into it as a result.
Akinfenwa is now 38 and has played for a host of clubs including, Swansea City, Northampton and AFC Wimbledon. He helped Wimbledon win the League Two play-offs in 2016.
The striker then joined Wycombe not long after the play-off success. He has been there four years, also helping them gain promotion to League One in 2018.
But he now has the chance to help them get to the Championship. The draw on Monday night sent the Chairboys through 6-3 on aggregate. They will face Oxford United in the showpiece affair at Wembley Stadium.
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