West Ham have condemned “an offensive and divisive chant” and urged fans not to sing it at their first Championship home game of the season against Charlton on Saturday. The chant, which relates to their Israel winger Manor Solomon and includes an anti-Palestine message, was sung by a section of the away support during their game against Burnley on Sunday, which ended in a 2-2 draw. West Ham said: “We understand that singing and chanting is a traditional and deeply embedded part of the matchday experience.
We encourage our supporters to sing loud and proud about their football club and the players wearing the claret and blue shirt, but never in a way that creates division or causes offence among fellow fans. We expect those who represent the club – be that players, staff, officials or supporters – to share those values and ensure that, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs, we are as our name says: United. Let’s make sure our support is something to be proud of and the envy of all who face us.” Solomon scored the Hammers’ second goal on his debut at Turf Moor.
The 27-year-old winger moved from Tottenham this month for a reported £5m fee, having also played for Fulham and Leeds in England. West Ham had a 2-0 lead after Solomon scored in the 72nd minute, but two goals from Zian Flemming, including an injury-time equaliser. The West Ham manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, told BBC Radio London he was impressed with Solomon’s first outing for the club: “I was happy he scored.
It will improve his confidence and he brings very good things [to us]. He is a very talented player.”
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