Colchester United have issued a statement about the alleged racist abuse aimed at ex-Carlisle United keeper Shamal George at Barrow.

The Essex club have also expressed their thanks to Barrow for their determination to take the strongest action possible against the perpetrators.

George said he was racially abused by someone behind the goal in the first half of Colchester's 3-2 win in south Cumbria.

U's boss Hayden Mullins also confirmed after the game that his keeper had been abused.

Barrow made a public address announcement about the matter during the game, and later pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly.

Colchester, in their statement said: "Like Barrow, Colchester United would like to make it absolutely clear that we abhor discrimination in all its forms.

"We would also like to commend Barrow in the effective way that they used the protocols available, and for their swift declaration that they will take the strongest action possible, including pursuing life bans, for anyone found guilty of racism.

"Colchester United will do everything we can to assist their and any subsequent EFL or criminal investigation into this matter.

"No person, in football or in our wider society, should have to be subjected to this discrimination or abuse and we will support Shamal in any way that he needs it.

"If you see or hear any discrimination at a football stadium, report it to the nearest steward or via the Kick It Out Reporting App."