Manchester City launch investigation into youth scout's alleged use of racially inappropriate language

Youth scout coordinator Dean Ramsdale is accused of describing black players as 'BBQs', meaning 'big, black and quick'

Manchester City have launched an investigation after receiving a complaint against a member of staff regarding alleged racially inappropriate language.

Dean Ramsdale, who works within City’s youth recruitment system, is alleged to have described black players as ‘BBQs’, meaning ‘big, black and quick’.

In a statement, City confirmed a complaint was being dealt with internally and said the club has a zero-tolerance approach towards discrimination.

“Manchester City received a complaint last month relating to racially inappropriate language used by a club employee in an external meeting,” the statement read.

“The complaint was immediately raised to the appropriate department and the matter is ongoing.

“Whilst the club cannot comment on the specific case while it is in process, we have a zero tolerance approach to discrimination of any kind and a disciplinary code of conduct which covers alleged matters of this nature.”

Ramsdale joined City from Sheffield Wednesday in the summer of 2017, having previously overseen youth football at Leeds United and Preston North End.