This week, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli found himself in hot water after posting an insensitive video about the recent coronavirus outbreak. The Englishman is facing a potential ban for his social media post as the FA conducts an investigation.
When Daily Hotspur relayed this information to fans, there was an immediate reaction from most fans that this punishment was fully deserved. Not only did Alli make an insensitive joke about the deadly virus, but his post also made assumptions about an Asian man based on his race. They fully condemned his behaviour, regardless of whether it was a silly mistake or not.
Do you think the FA's ruling is fair?
Yes
No
Very stupid of him to do, especially at a time of heightened racism in football, deserves a ban imo FA need to be tougher on stuff like this
— Em?? (@KingLedley_) February 10, 2020
Deserved, he should grow up
— Get Dele Alli out my club (@________78____) February 10, 2020
I expected this, personally I thought it was funny, but he was stupid for putting that out… live by the sword die by the sword I guess
— Chase (@chasethfc) February 11, 2020
Unbelievable…….
— Lee Timmins (@LeeTimmins2) February 10, 2020
He should b dscked,if u work 4 living in office,factory.plane,train etcetc, u would b given ur P45,so why not spoiled rich footballers
— hesham (@mrhtoyou) February 11, 2020
Deserved
— Sam (@DareToDier15) February 10, 2020
I really love him, and we need him. But he deserves to be punished. He is no longer a young player. He should be held responsible for his misbehavior.
— clairdelune (@nUFuy4SBPVBg0f4) February 10, 2020
As a role model to kids he’s got a responsibility to act in a certain way, should have known better than to make jokes about Coronavirus.
On & Off pitch he is looked upto by kids deserves his punishment whatever it may be.
— Ash Patel (@Ashishpatel1972) February 10, 2020
What do we think?
It is unlikely that Alli, who is valued at £81 million (Transfermarkt), meant this maliciously, and it was probably just a silly mistake. However, the actions cannot be ignored, and the FA are correct to step in. While some Tottenham Hotspur supporters may still feel aggrieved, public scrutiny is part and parcel of a professional footballer’s job. Hopefully, this punishment ensures Alli is more careful when posting content to social media in the future.