Barnet players were told they could be sacked if they went on strike as part of a stance against one of the club’s backroom staff following an allegation of racism, according to reports.
Captain Jamie Turley was reportedly suspended for taking a stand against a member of the Bees’ staff, who allegedly made the racist comment during Saturday’s game against Stockport, where Vanarama National League leaders County ran out 5-0 winners at The Hive.
Stockport subsequently issued a statement on Tuesday saying the club were aware of an alleged incident of racist abuse towards defender Ryan Johnson in the first half which “occurred in the home stands” and were continuing to support the player.
After the incident had been immediately reported by Johnson to referee Jacob Miles, the match was briefly stopped.
Barnet responded in a statement on Tuesday evening to confirm an investigation had been carried out in full on Saturday, which included the police who were at the stadium being consulted and witness statements taken.
However, it was ultimately concluded there was “no allegation or substance for a criminal investigation to take place”, and the club would now collate information for the Football Association to review.
According to reports, the allegation was made against one of the Barnet backroom staff and Bees captain Turley had subsequently asked the club for that person not to be around the squad at training on Monday.
It is reported the member of the backroom staff complained, which resulted in Turley being suspended.
The rest of the players then reportedly stated they would not play in Tuesday night’s game at Southend but later only changed their minds after having being told some of them could have their contracts terminated if they followed through with their stance.
Defender Turley was not named in the squad against Southend, with Rob Hall selected as captain.
Barnet chairman Anthony Kleanthous told The Mirror: “I have not spoken with the team at all and am not aware of any direct “termination” threat to the players.
“Jamie Turley has been suspended on full pay by HR at the Club following a separate internal complaint. This is standard staff disciplinary procedure and good practice to allow for the appropriate investigation to be carried out.”
Barnet have been contacted for further comment by the PA news agency regarding Turley’s situation and the fallout from Saturday.
In a statement on Tuesday night shortly ahead of the Southend game, Barnet said: “The club is aware of an incident of an alleged racist comment being made during our home game at the weekend, when we hosted Stockport County at The Hive London.
“We can confirm that an investigation was immediately carried out in full on the day of the alleged incident.
“This was conducted by the safety officer, who has overarching authority over these matters on match days, and in consultation with the attending police present at the game.
“Witnesses were interviewed with statements taken and the matter was reported to the London Matchday Silver Commander in a debrief to MO6 HQ Football Unit in line with MPS Policy.
“The senior police officer at the scene confirmed there was no allegation or substance for a criminal investigation to take place. The club is currently collating information for the FA to review in line with its regulatory responsibilities.
“The club would like to assure all those involved and all supporters that Barnet Football Club takes its social responsibilities very seriously and will always act with full integrity when investigating any matter.
“The club takes a zero tolerance approach to any forms of discrimination or abuse and will always act swiftly and robustly to deal with any such behaviour.”
