British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the racial abuse English players – Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Jadon Sancho – faced after they missed penalties against Italy in the Euro 2020 final. England lost to Italy 3-2 on penalties

Also read: Ronaldo to Donnarumma: The best and worst in Euro 2020

“This England team deserve to be lauded as heroes, not racially abused on social media. Those responsible for this appalling abuse should be ashamed of themselves,” Johnson wrote on Twitter.

Saka, Rashford and Sancho, who are all Black, missed their respective spot-kicks. Social media users not only blamed the three for the loss but also racially abused them. 

Also read: Gareth Southgate’s caution costs England penalty defeat against Italy in Euro final

Earlier in the day, the English Football Association (FA) condemned the racial abuse saying that nyone behind such disgusting behaviour is not welcome in following the team.

Also read: ‘Worst feeling in the world’: Harry Kane on England’s loss in Euro 2020 final

“The FA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at some of our England players on social media. We could not be clearer that anyone behind such disgusting behaviour is not welcome in following the team. We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible,” the statement said.

Also read: Italy inflict more penalty heartache on England: A lowdown on the shootout

The English football team also released a statement condemning the abuse.

“We’re disgusted that some of our squad — who have given everything for the shirt this summer — have been subjected to discriminatory abuse online after tonight’s game,” the team tweeted.

The British police authorities said that they would investigate the posts.

Also read: NBA Finals: Giannis, Bucks come back in the series to beat Suns in game 3

“We are aware of a number of offensive and racist social media comments being directed towards footballers following the #Euro2020 final,” the Metropolitan Police tweeted.

“This abuse is totally unacceptable, it will not be tolerated and it will be investigated.”

Also read: Novak Djokovic wins heart after trophy, gives his racket to young fan. Watch

London Mayor Sadiq Khan asked the social media platforms to act immediately and remove the content. 

“Those responsible for the disgusting online abuse we have seen must be held accountable — and social media companies need to act immediately to remove and prevent this hate,” Khan tweeted.