Walsall Supports Colchester United in Investigation of Alleged Racial Abuse

Walsall’s manager, Lee Grant, affirmed that the Saddlers will assist League Two rivals Colchester United in investigating allegations of racial abuse directed at goalkeeper Thimothee Lo-Tutala during Saturday’s match in Essex.

The match ended with Walsall defeating Colchester 3-1, but was interrupted in the second half when Lo-Tutala, a 23-year-old French goalkeeper on loan from Hull City, reported hearing a comment he deemed potentially racist from the away supporters.

Following the incident, discussions took place involving Grant, Colchester’s manager Danny Cowley, and match officials including referee Declan Brown and assistant referees Jon Block and Daniel D’Urso, along with fourth official Ian Cooper.

“He’s heard something,” Grant explained on BBC Radio WM. “He wasn’t completely clear on whether it was concrete, but if their goalkeeper reported hearing something inappropriate, it needs to be addressed properly.”

Grant praised the officials for their prompt action and following protocol. He stated, “The goalkeeper adhered to the correct procedures, and the officials were excellent in their response.”

He expressed his expectation that Lo-Tutala would meet with club staff and his manager, and reassured that Walsall would fully support the investigation until its conclusion.

When asked if Lo-Tutala’s report indicated a racist comment, Grant responded, “We would be appalled if that was the case. I wasn’t present and didn’t hear it myself, but that doesn’t negate its validity.”

Both clubs released nearly identical statements on Saturday evening, confirming that “an investigation has been launched, in line with standard protocol, after a report of discriminatory language towards a Colchester United player was made.”

They also stated their commitment to cooperating with Essex and West Midlands Police to “determine what was allegedly said and take any necessary actions.” Furthermore, both clubs emphasized that “discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and anyone found guilty of such offences will face arrest or a football banning order.”

Lo-Tutala developed his football career in London with West Ham United, Brentford, and Tottenham Hotspur before joining Hull City in August 2022. Although he has yet to debut for Hull, he has experienced five loan spells during his time at the club, including stints at Stevenage, Doncaster Rovers, Crawley Town, and currently Colchester.