Chelsea have issued a statement condemning the abuse aimed at Conor Gallagher after a clip of him and a club mascot went viral on social media at the weekend.
Chelsea were held to a 2-2 draw by 10-man Burnley on Saturday, with Gallagher captaining the home side at Stamford Bridge.
A clip which has been widely shared on social media after the match shows Gallagher taking his place inside the tunnel as he prepares to lead his side out ahead of the game.
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A young Chelsea mascot is then seen extending his hand, attempting to shake hands with the 24-year-old midfielder.
But Gallagher appears to miss the youngster's gesture and engages in conversation with another young mascot instead.
A screenshot later emerged on social media which proved that Gallagher did eventually acknowledge the first mascot, with the midfielder pictured with his arm around the youngster prior to walking down the tunnel.
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But despite that second image, the England international has been subjected to abuse on social media and defamatory statements about his character.
Chelsea have now issued a statement defending Gallagher and condemning the "unacceptable" abuse he has received.
"Chelsea Football Club is aware of a video clip circulating on social media from Saturday's fixture against Burnley, which has been taken considerably out of context," read the statement.
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"The subsequent level of abuse and defamatory comments directed towards Conor Gallagher is completely unacceptable.
"We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome."
Gallagher wore the captain's armband on Saturday with Reece James and Ben Chilwell both currently injured.
Cole Palmer scored twice for the home side but goals from Josh Cullen and Dara O'Shea secured a crucial point for the visitors.
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Chelsea are now 12th in the Premier League table and next face Manchester United at home on Thursday evening.
Topics: Football, Chelsea, Conor Gallagher, Premier League
Rory O'Callaghan