England manager Gareth Southgate has described the online racist abuse received by some of his players as "unforgivable".
Three of England's players, Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford, have been subjected to racist abuse on social media platforms after missing penalties in the shootout at the end of the Euro 2020 final which was won by Italy.
The England boss condemned the abuse but also pointed out that some of it came from outside the UK.
"For some of them to be abused is unforgivable really. I know a lot of that has come from abroad, that people who track those things have been able to explain that, but not all of it," Southgate said at his post-tournament briefing on Monday
"It's just not what we stand for. We have been a beacon of light in bringing people together in people being able to relate to the national team, and the national team stands for everybody and so that togetherness has to continue.
"We have shown the power our country has when it does come together and has that energy and positivity together."
England's Marcus Rashford stands dejected with team mates after missing from the penalty spot during the penalty shoot out following the UEFA Euro 2020 Final at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday July 11, 2021.Saka's club Arsenal released a statement in support of the 19-year-old who missed the last kick in the shootout and pledged their support for their player.
Southgate also spoke in defence of the young winger who played well throughout the tournament.
"We heal together as a team now, and we're there for them, and I know that 99 per cent of the public will be as well," said Southgate.
"Bukayo, in particular, has been an absolute star in this tournament, (he has shown) incredible maturity and the way he has played has brought a smile to so many people's faces. He's become such a popular member of the group and I know he has got everybody's support."
