Ameobi victim of racist tweet

POLICE have begun an investigation into racist abuse posted on a Premier League footballer’s Twitter account.

Sammy Ameobi, who plays for Newcastle United alongside older brother Shola, was called a “n****r” by a follower with the username @JonnnnyPhipps after the footballer tweeted a photo of a black pair of boots.

The 19-year-old player, who broke into the first team at the end of last season and is becoming a fans’ favourite, retweeted the abuse he received, and his attacker’s account was closed down.

A Newcastle United spokeswoman said: “Newcastle United are aware of a racist remark that was directed towards Sammy Ameobi via Twitter on Sunday evening. The club and Sammy have reported the matter to the police, who are now dealing with the incident.”

Ameobi had posted a message alongside the photo of the Nike boots, saying: “There will always be a place in my heart for the all blacks.” The abuser replied: “Your hand is nearly the same colour. £n*****r.”

Meanwhile it has emerged that QPR’S Anton Ferdinand has also been targeted with racist abuse via his Twitter account.

The FA are investigating claims that QPR defender Ferdinand was the subject of a racial slur by Chelsea and England captain John Terry on October 23.