Alves surprised by support

Dani Alves admits to being stunned by the incredible response and support he has received for his unconventional reaction to racist abuse during last Sunday’s La Liga clash with Villarreal, but hopes he has helped further the fight against discrimination.

The Barcelona defender sparked a social media campaign against racism as scores of fellow professionals showed their backing for his decision to eat a banana thrown at him by an opposition fan.

Neymar, Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero, Luis Suarez and women’s star Marta were among those who posted pictures of themselves taking bites out of bananas in tribute to Alves’ actions.

Many other players as well as members of the public have also praised Alves, and the Brazil international admitted: “All the support has surprised me. It was a super spontaneous reaction I made.

“My reaction was to pick it up and take a bite. It wasn’t pre-planned, because I couldn’t imagine that a banana would be thrown onto the pitch. I think a negative attitude has to be met with a positive one. That makes more difference than trying to fight in a different way.”

Villarreal revealed on Monday evening that they had, with the help of fans, found out who the culprit was and had withdrawn their season ticket and banned them from the El Madrigal stadium for life.