Portsmouth release three players over alleged discriminatory messages

Portsmouth Football Club confirmed Wednesday the release of three academy players following an investigation into alleged discriminatory messages shared in a private chat among members of the under-18 squad. 

Portsmouth play in League One, England's third tier. 

"We can confirm that a decision has been made today (July 28) to release three players from the academy. These players do have the right to appeal the club’s decision," Portsmouth said in the prepared statement. 

"Portsmouth Football Club are fully committed to the elimination of all forms of discrimination. We are part of a diverse community and are dedicated to promoting an environment of equality and inclusion at all times – both inside the football club and in our wider society.

"We also continue to respectfully appeal for everyone’s consideration in their use of social media posts directed towards any of the club’s employees and any other external parties."

According to a Sky Sports report, the messages were linked with England's loss to Italy on penalties in the final of the UEFA European Championship earlier this month. England players Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were targeted with racist abuse online after they missed their attempts during the shootout but subsequently received support from fans and sports personalities from around the world in the days and weeks following the final. 

Barcelona teenager Ilaix Moriba shared earlier this week he's recently been racially abused online amid a contract standoff with that club.