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West Ham have condemned “an offensive and divisive chant” and urged fans not to sing it at their first Championship home game of the season against Charlton on Saturday.
The chant, which relates to their Israel winger Manor Solomon and includes an anti-Palestine message, was sung by a section of the away support during their game against Burnley on Sunday, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
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West Ham said: “We understand that singing and chanting is a traditional and deeply embedded part of the matchday experience. We encourage our supporters to sing loud and proud about their football club and the players wearing the claret and blue shirt, but never in a way that creates division or causes offence among fellow fans.
“We are immensely proud of the fact that West Ham United has always been an inclusive football club, ever since our formation in 1895 … in the 131 years that have followed, that identity has evolved with the club located in one of the most diverse and multicultural areas of London, always open and welcoming to those who become members of the West Ham family and share the values we cherish.
“Equality, equity, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the club and we believe in the power of football to unite and bring people together. We expect those who represent the club – be that players, staff, officials or supporters – to share those values and ensure that, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs, we are as our name says: United. Let’s make sure our support is something to be proud of and the envy of all who face us.”
Solomon scored the Hammers’ second goal on his debut at Turf Moor. The 27-year-old winger moved from Tottenham this month for a reported £5m fee, having also played for Fulham and Leeds in England.
West Ham had a 2-0 lead after Solomon scored in the 72nd minute, but two goals from Zian Flemming, including an injury-time equaliser.
The West Ham manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, told BBC Radio London he was impressed with Solomon’s first outing for the club: “I was happy he scored. It will improve his confidence and he brings very good things [to us]. He is a very talented player.”
