Jarrow MP calls for new laws as she slams racist abuse of England players, while praising squad who 'brought great joy and unity to the nation'

England suffered a painful defeat to Italy on penalties at Wembley after securing their place in the first final of a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup.

There has been an outpouring of pride for the team for their success in the tournament and the way the players have conducted themselves on and off the pitch.

But Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka – who missed penalties during the shoot-out – were all targeted by online trolls in what was described as ‘sickening racist abuse’.

Jarrow MP Kate Osborne spoke out out against the abuse today, calling for new laws to deal with those who engage in such behaviour.

She also paid tribute to England manager Gareth Southgate and his squad.

She said: “I, like many across the country, was absolutely gutted for Gareth Southgate and the England squad who put so much into delivering our first tournament win for the men's team since 1966.

“Each and every one of those England players and staff have brought great joy and unity to the nation during this tournament in what has been an incredibly difficult year.

“However, on a day when we should be coming together to show how proud we are, following an England team that has promoted equality, and created real change in our society, we are having to defend three young players and condemn racist abuse online yet again.

“This behaviour is unacceptable and online abuse and racism must be legislated against.”

The FA condemned those who had abused the England players, and vowed to take action.

In a statement, it said: “We will do all we can to support the players affected while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible.

“We will continue to do everything we can to stamp discrimination out of the game, but we implore Government to act quickly and bring in the appropriate legislation so this abuse has real life consequences.

"Social media companies need to step up and take accountability and action to ban abusers from their platforms, gather evidence that can lead to prosecution and support making their platforms free from this type of abhorrent abuse.”

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.