Man City’s Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw returns to training after receiving racist abuse

Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor says Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw has returned to training and the club will continue to support her after she was subjected to racist and misogynistic abuse.

Shaw pulled out of City’s League Cup semi-final with Arsenal on Thursday to protect her mental health following what her club described as the “disgusting treatment” meted out to the Jamaica forward following the 4-3 defeat by the Gunners on 2 February.

Taylor says City are determined to help the 28-year-old cope with her ordeal.

“Bunny is back with us,” said Taylor. “She is OK and trained with the team, which is good.

“I have spoken to her but respectfully, I don’t want to share that. There is a caring side with the club. The level of support looks different for each person but we will support Bunny in the right way.”

City have confirmed the content has been shared with the relevant authorities and an investigation would be held.

After countless instances of racist abuse of male players, it now seems women are also having to deal with the unwanted side of the game.

Last weekend Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor, condemned those responsible for the verbal abuse suffered by skipper Millie Bright after the 1-0 win over Aston Villa.

“We really don’t see any place for this to be in any walk of life, not just a game of football,” said Taylor. “It’s not acceptable. It never will be and it never should be.

“It’s a horrendous situation for any person to have to deal with. We won’t stand for it.

“Unfortunately, at the moment it seems there is a platform for certain people to be able to come forward with those comments. How do you deal with that? I really don’t know. What I care about is the players.

“We really care about Bunny Shaw in particular and we really care about every player we have at this club.”