Blues complain over Benayoun abuse

Chelsea have complained to the Malaysian Football Association about abuse directed at Yossi Benayoun during a recent pre-season match.

Benayoun was barracked by the crowd during Chelsea’s game against a Malaysia XI.

The Blues initially played down suggestions that the booing of their player – one of the few Israelis to have played in Malaysia, a Muslim-majority country that does not recognise Israel – was anti-semitic.

But after reviewing the match, they have decided to lodge a complaint.

A Chelsea statement read:  “Notwithstanding most fans behaving appropriately on the night, we believe Yossi was subjected to anti-semitic abuse by a number of supporters at the game.

“Such behaviour is offensive, totally unacceptable and has no place in football.

“The club did not make representations at the time as it was initially unclear as to the nature of the abuse Yossi received, as several players from both teams experienced similar treatment, sometimes louder and longer.

“However, having taken time to consider the issue fully, it has become apparent that a formal complaint was necessary.” 

Chelsea’s match against Aston Villa on Saturday is the final game of their visit to Asia, which has included visits to Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong.