COLCHESTER United have condemned the alleged racist abuse aimed at forward Corie Andrews during their 1-0 win at Leyton Orient.

Police are investigating the alleged incident, which has been reported to have taken place seconds after Andrews was substituted in the 80th minute of the League Two clash, at Brisbane Road.

Leyton Orient have confirmed that a supporter has been arrested, following the incident.

Colchester reported the alleged incident to the fourth official, who in turn communicated it to referee Tom Reeves.

 

In a statement, Colchester United said: 'Colchester United condemn the alleged racial abuse aimed at Corie Andrews during the away match at Leyton Orient this afternoon.

'Following the reports of racial abuse aimed at Corie Andrews, Colchester United support Leyton Orient and the police as they investigate the incident at the Breyer Group Stadium.

'We hope that should any person be found guilty of racial abuse of any description, they will be punished in the strongest possible way, and Colchester United would like to reiterate that we abhor discrimination in all its forms.

'The club will support Corie Andrews in any way that he needs following the match at Leyton Orient.'

The alleged incident happened after Andrews came off the pitch to take his place in the dugout, having played his part in Colchester's win.

The 24-year-old, who is on loan from AFC Wimbledon, provided the assist for Freddie Sears' winner against Orient.

Colchester interim head coach Wayne Brown said: "I think it's a matter now for the police.

"I think there's been an arrest but that's for them to deal with now.

"We try and look after our players the best way that we can and try and support them in the best way that we can.

"But there's definitely no room in the game for what happened today."

 

Leyton Orient have confirmed that they written to the individual concerned telling them that they banned from attending any of their club's home or away games, until the police enquiry is concluded.

In a statement, they said: 'The Club can confirm a supporter has been arrested following today’s home match against Colchester United.

'During the game, the Colchester bench notified the fourth official to make him aware of an alleged racist remark which they had heard directed towards a Colchester player who was on their bench.

'The Club will take the strictest possible measures should the outcomes of the investigation find the individual guilty.

'The Club has formally written to the individual informing them that they are prohibited from attending any Leyton Orient fixtures home or away, until the conclusion of the police enquiry.

'The Club will make no further comment at this stage.'