LIVERPOOL and Everton have released a joint statement slamming vile racist abuse aimed at Abdoulaye Doucoure.

The midfielder was involved in a post-match bust-up with Curtis Jones after celebrating Everton’s 98th minute derby equaliser in front of travelling Liverpool fans.

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It sparked a mass brawl as teammates from both sides rushed in to the fray.

And both Doucoure and Jones were shown straight red cards by referee Michael Oliver.

However, Doucoure was subjected to disgraceful racist abuse in the wake of the game.

It’s led to Liverpool and Everton putting aside their rivalry to condone the sick behaviour while offering their unconditional support to the midfielder.

A joint statement read: “Liverpool FC and Everton FC are aware of – and condemn in the strongest possible terms – racist abuse received by Abdoulaye Doucoure following Wednesday night’s Merseyside derby.

“Such abuse is reprehensible and will not, and should not, be tolerated.

“Together, the two clubs will work with Merseyside Police, who are conducting an investigation with the aim of identifying the individuals responsible.

“We also encourage people who witness or experience online abuse to report and highlight it to the social media platforms on which it appears.

“We must all, including the social media companies, take a zero-tolerance stance. Platforms need to take accountability and action to ban such abusers.

“Racism and hate has no place online, in our stadiums or in our communities.”

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