Walsall to back Colchester keeper in racism inquiry

Marine boss Lee Grant pledged support for Colchester keeper Lo-Tutala after he reported hearing a potentially racist comment during Saturday's 3-1 League Two win; both clubs have launched an investigation.

Walsall won 3-1 at Colchester United on Saturday when the match was halted in the second half after goalkeeper Thimothee Lo-Tutala reported hearing a potentially racist comment from the away end. The 23-year-old French keeper, on loan from Hull City, followed protocol by reporting the incident to referee Declan Brown, who consulted with both managers Lee Grant and Danny Cowley.

Grant told BBC Radio WM that Lo-Tutala "wasn't crystal clear on whether it was concrete on what he heard" but stressed that if the goalkeeper reported hearing something inappropriate, it must be dealt with properly. He praised Lo-Tutala, the match officials and Colchester's handling of the situation. "We will support him and everyone fully until the process has run its course," Grant said.

Both clubs issued identical statements confirming an investigation has been launched in line with standard protocol. They will work with Essex Police and West Midlands Police to establish what was allegedly said and take any necessary action. Both clubs stated that discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated and anyone found guilty will face arrest or a football banning order.