Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has revealed he suffered ‘immense’ racial abuse following Frank Lampard’s sacking, but believes social media companies will not make any changes to tackle this problem.
The 27-year-old has been blamed by sections of the Blues fanbase for the departure of their former coach, but dismissed the rumors as nonsense.
However, Rudiger received a barrage of racial abuse following Lampard’s dismissal, both directly and indirectly on Twitter and Instagram. Chelsea are investigating the case and will turn over any evidence to the police.
And, speaking to the club’s website, the German defender has since suggested that social media companies “don’t really care” how easily the public can hurl derogatory slurs at people in the limelight.
“To be very honest, I don’t know all of these things on social media, but I think the more people that do accounts, the more money they make,” Rudiger said.
“So me personally, I think they don’t care because as you know money has power so the rest doesn’t matter so it’s hard to say if people are going to make a change about it. ”
Rudiger described the level of racism he experienced as “immense” and claimed his conscience was clear in the face of Lampard’s sacking, despite suggestions his attitude led to the demise of the Chelsea legend.
“My conscience is clear. I know I haven’t done all of this nonsense. I am open to any new trainer as I was also open to Mr. Lampard.
“I can’t control people’s emotions, but people should be human beings. I didn’t publish anything but the racial abuse was immense. It makes me stronger because I know who I am and can look at myself in the mirror and smile.
“Sure if it hurts, but in this case I just block because I know I haven’t done anything.”
The Germany international has started Chelsea’s last five games, and he has impressed under new manager Thomas Tuchel.
