Rachel Riley has expressed her criticism towards the handling of the Mason Greenwood situation at Manchester United.
The young striker’s exit was confirmed by the club on Monday after six months internal investigation.
However, the reasoning behind the decision is what has angered many fans and Riley in particular.
The statement from the club said: “did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged”, adding: “Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture.”
This has led Riley to accuse the club of ‘gaslighting’.
“This overreaching statement will put wind in the sails of abusers and send a message to victims it’s more trouble than it’s worth to report alleged abuse. It’s so disappointing to see my club contribute to the culture that upholds this.”
“The question before them [United] was not whether Mason Greenwood may be found guilty in a criminal, or even civil court, it was whether he’s fit to wear the United badge, to be a role model to kids who look up to footballers as heroes, and have his name proudly displayed on shirts sold in the club shop,” she wrote.