The Birmingham star points out a fan he claims racially abused him
Police are investigating after Juninho Bacuna claimed he was racially abused by a fan for the second time this season.
Birmingham midfielder Bacuna reported the incident to the fourth official during the 1-0 defeat at West Brom on Saturday.
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The former Huddersfield Town star was seen on video discussing the incident with officials on the touchline.
Bacuna continued to play after informing the referee team of what he had seen.
The 26-year-old also made a similar complaint during a home game against Huddersfield in October.
The reported racist abuse during Saturday's match is now being investigated by West Midlands Police, who have issued a statement on the incident.
It said: “We are investigating after a Birmingham City player was racially abused during the match against The Hawthorns today.
“We will review CCTV footage and work with both clubs to identify who was responsible and provide support to the player.
“We will not tolerate racist abuse in any form, either in football or in society in general, and we will seek to prosecute anyone who commits hate crimes.”
While managers from both clubs also spoke out following the incident, Blues boss Tony Mowbray said: “The consequences must be serious. You can't just say 'Sorry, mate'.”
And Baggies adviser Carlos Corberan said: “The club will conduct a serious investigation.”
West Brom announced in their own statement that they will assist police with their investigation.
It said: 'Albion will offer its full support to West Midlands Police in their criminal investigation into this matter.
“The club will also remain in contact with Birmingham City to ensure Juninho Bacuna receives the support he needs at this time.
“The club takes a strong stance against all forms of discrimination and will do everything we can to ensure that anyone found guilty of racism receives the strongest possible penalty under the law, up to a lifetime ban from The Hawthorns.
“Albion will continue to work with the Football Association, the EFL and all relevant authorities to rid the game of racism.”
It is the second time in less than a week that a serious case has occurred at the Hawthorns.
The Black Country Derby between West Brom and fierce rivals Wolves in the FA Cup was marred by violence and crowd trouble during the match.
Police had to intervene after fighting led to fans flooding onto the pitch.
It is believed trouble flared after it emerged some Wolves fans had infiltrated the area reserved for Albion supporters.
A number of supporters were arrested after the incident and fans were even taken to hospital with injuries.
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