'Significant number' of complaints over Bentancur racial slur

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Rodrigo Bentancur admitted his comments were a "very bad joke"
  • Author, Nick Ransom
  • Role, 大象传媒 Sport journalist

Anti-discrimination charity Kick it Out says it has received a "significant number" of complaints about a racial slur Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur used about team-mate Son Heung-min.

Appearing on Uruguayan TV, Bentancur was asked by a presenter for a Tottenham shirt, before replying: "Sonny's? It could be Sonny's cousin too as they all look the same."

Bentancur later apologised on Instagram and said his comments were a "very bad joke".

"Kick It Out has received a significant number of reports about Rodrigo Bentancur鈥檚 comments," the charity said.

"These reports have already been sent to the club and relevant authorities."

The body acknowledged Bentancur's apology but added: "It highlights a wider issue that heavily affects East Asian and wider communities. We鈥檒l be seeking to address these broader issues in the coming season."

Bentancur posted: "Sonny brother! I apologise to you for what happened, it was just a very bad joke.

"You know I love you and I would never disrespect you or hurt you or anyone else! I love you, brother!"

Son has not responded publicly to the apology.