The Swedish FA have confirmed that they have launched an appeal against UEFA's decision not to pursue claims that Manchester United youngster Anthony Elanga was racially abused during an Under-21 game in October.
The 19-year-old was allegedly targeted by a racist comment from an Italian player during the game, with Swedish officials quickly raising a formal complaint and UEFA confirming that they would investigate the matter.
However, UEFA have since ended their investigation and decided against taking the matter to their disciplinary panel, which prompted a disappointed response from Sweden.
"The Swedish Football Federation is handling this situation with the utmost seriousness," Swedish FA lawyer Tobias Tibell said.
"It’s good and important that both our personnel and the player himself acted and told the match officials about what had happened. We think it’s disappointing that UEFA now have chosen not to take this further to their disciplinary committee. However, there is no doubt of what the player has heard and we will appeal the decision."
United echoed their support for Elanga in their own statement, while the teenager himself thanked those around him for their guidance.
"I am, of course, very disappointed," Elanga said of UEFA's ruling. "I know what I heard and what happened. I hope that the appeal can lead to something. I’m thankful for the support I have received from my team-mates and the Swedish Football Federation."
Elanga has been on the fringes of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's senior setup for a while, but has managed just 17 minutes of Carabao Cup action and has instead spent most of his time with United's development side.
He has been on the bench for all three of United's Champions League games so far, but is yet to make an appearance.
Source : 90min