English football at breaking point over abuse on social media

A file photo of the ‘No room for racism’ badge on the shirt of a Newcastle United player. The leaders of English football have asked the heads of Facebook and Twitter to show ‘basic human decency’ by taking more robust action to eradicate racism and for users’ identities to be verified. — AP

Death threats. Racist abuse. Sexist slurs. And social media accounts allowed to stay active even after spreading bile.

English football has reached breaking point with players, coaches, referees and officials aghast at the ongoing proliferation of hate aimed at them on Instagram and Twitter.