Man, 24, arrested after he ‘hurling racist abuse’ at Ashley Cole during FA cup tie after Swindow club apologies to star

COPS have arrested a man after he “hurled racist abuse” at England star Ashley Cole during an FA cup match.

A 24-year-old local man is being held by police following Swindon Town’s FA Cup match with Manchester City at the County Ground stadium.

GettyCops have arrested a man after he “hurled racist abuse” at England star Ashley Cole during an FA cup match[/caption]

Cole was working as a pundit for ITV sport during the third round tie match when the incident occurred.

Swindon owner Clem Morfuni earlier said the team are “saddened and deeply disgusted” by the abuse – and they sent their “heartfelt apologies” to Cole.

The suspect has been taken to Gablecross police station where he remains in custody.

Superintendent Phil Staynings, Swindon commander, said: “Racial abuse of any kind will never be tolerated by Wiltshire Police.

“We have worked closely with the football club, who share our strong stance on this, and would like to thank them for their support in our ongoing investigation.

“We continue to encourage people to report these types of incidents and I’m pleased that my officers have been relentless in securing this positive arrest.

“We will continue to work with the club to stamp out hate crime of any kind that spoils matches for the majority of supporters.”