Football: Anti-discrimination group Kick it Out want to ban chant about Romelu Lukaku's penis size

Manchester United's Romelu Lukaku celebrates scoring their third goal during the Premier League on Sept 17, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS

(GUARDIAN) - Manchester United have been urged to stop their supporters from singing a song about Romelu Lukaku that makes reference to the size of the striker's manhood on the basis that it reinforces racist stereotypes.

Anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out intervened after footage emerged of United fans singing the song, which goes to the tune of the Stone Roses hit "Made of Stone", during the team's 3-0 victory over Basel at Old Trafford in the Champions League last week.

It is believed to have been repeated during Sunday's 4-0 win against Everton at the same venue when Lukaku, who joined United from the Merseyside club in July for a fee of £75 million (S$136 million) rising to £90 million with add-ons, scored one goal and assisted another.

Kick It Out have written directly to United asking them to act, and in a statement published by The Times, a spokesman for the organisation is quoted as saying: "Kick It Out is aware of the footage of the alleged racist chanting by supporters of Manchester United that emerged on Wednesday evening (Sept 13).

"The lyrics used in the chant are offensive and discriminatory. Racist stereotypes are never acceptable in football or wider society, irrespective to show support for a player.

"We have contacted Manchester United and will be working closely with them and the (English) FA to ensure that (the issue) is addressed swiftly. The perpetrators can expect to face punishment."

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