There is high drama in the MLS after a San Jose Earthquakes player said that he heard a racist remark being said by a New York Red Bulls player.
During the match on Saturday between the two sides, San Jose Earthquakes striker Jeremy Ebobisse heard a racist remark come from a Red Bulls player, but he declined to say which one.
The alleged incident occurred in the 54th minute of the game and it is now being investigated by the MLS.
Ebobisse also explained that in the wake of the incident, his team nearly walked off the field and it caused 21 minutes of added time.
In the press conference, Ebobisse explains the reason for the Earthquakes continuing the game. It was because the player in question had not directed the remark at a specific other player, it was just said generally.
“The racist remark was said – I do not believe it was to me, I can feel pretty comfortable saying but the word was used,” Ebobisse said after the game. “From there, anyone can make any sort of inference as to what it was aimed at, that is what the investigation can get to.
“It is important we dig out all the facts. I want to be as open as possible here. There is a lot of uncertainty here, I want to respect what will hopefully be a robust investigation. A difficult situation. I am grateful I was with my teammates.
“What is important for me to share is that I know what I heard and the reason why I felt, after a lengthy conversation we should continue with the game is because the player who said the word claimed it was not aimed at any of us.
‘Whether that is a good faith comment or not we shall see as the investigation goes on. But a difficult moment where players were put in charge, have to manage all sorts of emotions because the system is not robust enough.”
