Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka has been subjected to racial abuse on social media after the Gunners' draw with West Ham on Sunday.
The England international missed a penalty in the game at the London Stadium, with Arsenal throwing away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with the Hammers and leave East London with a disappointing point.
Had he scored, the win would have earned Arsenal a valuable three points as the season reaches its climax. Mikel Arteta's team still sit top of the Premier League table, but will need a result from their top-of-the-table clash with Manchester City on April 26.
The abuse Saka received on social media on Sunday night has echoes of what he received when he missed a crucial penalty for England in the Euro 2020 final. He has since become one of the national team's most important players, with an outstanding performance in December's World Cup.
After Sunday's game, Saka was sent a racist message on social media - which The Mirror has chosen not to repeat - while a number of users have already condemned the posts.
The academy graduate has been a big part of Arsenal's success as they push for the title, and this point has been made by many rushing to his defence.
"Saka has been impressive since the beginning of the league and I also think it's safe to say without Saka in that team Arsenal would be hanging at their normal 5th position," one Twitter user said. "Today Saka missed a penalty and you lots came up with this. You lots are disgusting racists"
"Being racist towards saka the moment he screws up or under any circumstance is so disgusting and shameful," another said. "Being racist to players who have a bad game will forever grind my gears leave saka ALONE" was another response, while a number of supporters said they had reported the offending content.
Mirror Football understands that Arsenal have taken action and the account has been blocked. The club are working with technology experts to identify individuals.
It is not the first time Saka has been abused after a penalty miss. The Football Association condemned racist abuse sent the way of Saka and his England team-mates Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho following the Euro 2020 final against Italy at Wembley.
After receiving abuse in the aftermath of England's defeat in the Euros final, he thanked those fans who had instead shown him support and solidarity. The 21-year-old has since gone from strength to strength on the pitch, and is enjoying his most fruitful season in front of goal for the Gunners.
"I have stayed away from social media for a few days to spend time with my family and reflect on the last few weeks," Saka said in 2021.. This message won’t do it justice how grateful I am for all the love that I have received, and I feel that I need to thank everyone who has supported me.
"It was an honour to be part of an @England squad that leads by example, they are brothers for life and I’m grateful for everything that I have learnt from every one of the players and staff who worked so hard. To help that team reach our first final in 55 years, seeing my family in the crowd, knowing what they’ve given up to help me get there, that meant everything to me.
"There are no words to tell you how disappointed I was with the result and my penalty," he continued. "I really believed we would win this for you. I’m sorry that we couldn’t bring it home for you this year, but I promise you that we will give everything we’ve got to make sure this generation knows how it feels to win.
"My reaction post match said it all, I was hurting so much and I felt like I’d let you all and my England family down, but I can promise you this.. I will not let that moment or the negativity that I’ve received this week break me.
"For those who have campaigned on my behalf and sent me heartfelt letters, wished me and my family well - I’m so thankful. This is what football should be about. Passion, people of all races, genders, religions and backgrounds coming together with one shared joy of the rollercoaster of football."
