Laporta calls for action after racism against Barca duo

Barcelona president Joan Laporta expects action to be taken by the Spanish authorities over the racial abuse suffered by Samuel Eto’o and Ronaldinho from Getafe fans on Saturday.

The Barca pair were subjected to repeated taunts during their 2-1 victory and Laporta insists something must be done to combat the growing problem.

Racism in football has been forced into the spotlight in recent weeks, not least since Spain’s friendly win against England on November 19 – when a number of England’s black players were the victims of monkey taunts at Real Madrid’s Bernabeu Stadium.

“At Barca we are against violent behaviour and racist actions,” Laporta said. “Our position is firm and very clear and we will continue in this line.

“I believe that now the Anti-Violence Committee and the necessary bodies must act upon these questions and we have confidence that this will happen.”

Laporta also admitted Barcelona may be forced back into the transfer market when the window re-opens in January.

Long-term injuries to key players such as Henrik Larsson, Edmilson, Thiago Motta and Gabri have left the Catalan giants in need of reinforcements.

However, the president refused to reveal any specific targets. “There are a lot of footballers over who we are talking,” he said.

“But I do not want to concrete any names until the coaching staff say that they are the best suited to occupy the positions.

“We are looking at central midfield and attacking players but we need people who understand the philosophy and the system at Barcelona.”