By Daniel Edu
Diallang Jaiyesimi, the Nigerian-born British footballer, became the target ofdu racial abuse after his team, St Johnstone, faced a defeat against Glasgow Rangers in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday, December 20.
Jaiyesimi, who started in the midfield for St Johnstone, received a red card in the 33rd minute of the match for a challenge on Rangers’ John Lundstram. Despite playing with a numerical disadvantage, St Johnstone held off more goals until the 85th minute when Rangers secured the win with a penalty from James Tavernier.
Following the defeat, Jaiyesimi faced criticism from some St Johnstone fans on social media, particularly on X, resorting to racial abuse against the 25-year-old midfielder.
In response to the racial attacks, Jaiyesimi’s club issued a statement expressing solidarity with the player, who is on loan from Charlton. The club condemned the “unacceptable behavior” and pledged to report the incidents to Police Scotland for further investigation.
The official statement from the club read: “We are aware of a racist tweet circulating that was aimed at Diallang Jaiyesimi tonight. We will pass this on to Police Scotland to investigate. Say no to racism.”
Jaiyesimi, born in Southwark, England, to Nigerian parents, has been playing for St Johnstone on a season-long loan from Championship club Charlton since September 1, 2023. Despite the racial abuse, the club stands firmly behind the player, emphasizing their commitment to combating racism in football. Jaiyesimi remains eligible to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria as he has not represented any England youth teams.
