Frank Lampard urged people to turn towards respect and away from hate as football grapples with a damaging week of racism flashpoints.
Chelsea suspended four supporters from attending matches at Stamford Bridge and, alongside the Metropolitan Police, are conducting an investigation into whether Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling was subjected to racist abuse during last weekend's Premier League match.
Sterling addressed the matter in a now much-discussed Instagram post, stating he expected "no better" than fans directing such comments towards him. The England international also pointed to contrasting UK media coverage of white and black footballers – a disparity he believes "helps fuel racism and aggressive behaviour".