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Tamworth's Chris Wreh racially abused after Spurs loss, refuses to play

Tamworth player Chris Wreh made himself unavailable for his team's match against Boldmere St Michaels on Tuesday after he expressed his disappointment at the club's response to the racist abuse he suffered following their FA Cup defeat to Tottenham.

Tamworth, who compete in the National League, held Spurs to 0-0 at full-time, before the Premier League club went on to win 3-0 after extra-time.

After the match, Wreh posted a screenshot of abuse he received on social media.

"After an amazing day today, this is the last thing I expected to see when I opened Instagram. Nevertheless, thank you for all the support today. Fans were unreal," Wreh said.

The 28-year-old posted an update on Tuesday and confirmed the police were investigating the matter, and that he would not play for Tamworth in their match on Tuesday due to their response to the abuse.

"Unfortunately, I will not be available for this evening's game," Wreh said.

"While I have the utmost respect for my manager [Andy Peaks], who has supported me throughout this issue, I am disappointed that the club has not publicly supported me yet, which has left me feeling confused and disappointed.

"To date, I have received only one call from an official at the club, more than 36 hours after the incident. At no point was I asked if I was okay, instead I was informed that the silence was due to the desire to keep the matter internal.

"I cannot agree with or condone this approach.

"If these incidents are kept 'in-house,' they will never be addressed. I hope everyone understands my reasons for speaking out."

ESPN has approached Tamworth for comment.

The club issued a statement on Wednesday, which read: "We are aware of racist abuse that was sent via direct messenger on social media to our player Chris Wreh after the F.A. Cup match between Tamworth Football Club and Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 12th January 2025.

"Club officials are continuing to liaise with our Dedicated Football Officer and other policing partners to assist with their initial enquiries.

"Representing the Club, Andy Peaks First Team Manger has been and continues to be in communication with Chris throughout this deplorable racial posting which has been recognised by Chris.

"We will continue to support Chris with the extensive work that's going on behind the scenes to bring the person responsible to justice.

"Tamworth Football Club and its management have and will always support it's players against any sign of racism or discrimination so all players have trust within the club, for which they have all played a major role in the clubs rapid growth, and recent FA cup run.

"Racist abuse will never be tolerated and will be thoroughly investigated."