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Rashford responds to racist abuse after Arsenal match: Humanity 'at its worst'

SHAUN BOTTERILL / AFP / Getty

Marcus Rashford received racist messages on social media following Manchester United's goalless draw at Arsenal on Saturday.

Rashford, who was awarded an MBE by the Queen of England for his campaign against child hunger and poverty, said he wouldn't share screenshots because "it would be irresponsible to do so."

The 23-year-old is one of several Premier League players in recent days to be racially abused online. Teammates Anthony Martial and Axel Tuanzebe were targeted on social media after Manchester United's 2-1 loss to Sheffield United on Wednesday.

Earlier Saturday, Chelsea defender Reece James urged Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to "do more" after being subjected to abuse.

In a statement, Chelsea said it was "disgusted" by the acts and called on regulatory authorities "to take stronger, more effective, and more urgent action against this despicable behavior."

A spokesperson for Facebook told BBC Sport that the company is working "closely with clubs, players, and football authorities to investigate instances of discrimination and collectively tackle this issue."

A 49-year-old man was also arrested Saturday on suspicion of racially abusing West Bromwich Albion midfielder Romaine Sawyers. The incident allegedly occurred during West Brom's 5-0 defeat to Manchester City earlier in the week. The club reported the incident to police, demanding the "toughest available legal punishment." West Brom said it will issue a lifetime stadium ban to the person in question.

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