Semenyo 'Frozen' by Racist Slur at Anfield, Court Hears

Antoine Semenyo found himself at the center of a distressing incident during a Premier League clash at Anfield in August 2025. The Bournemouth player reportedly 'froze' after a Liverpool fan hurled a racist insult his way as he prepared for a throw-in. This shocking allegation was brought to light in court, where it was revealed that Mark Mogan, 47, allegedly shouted the slur around 30 minutes into the game on August 15. Prosecutor Simon Jones recounted how Semenyo was visibly hurt and took the brave step of reporting the abuse to referee Anthony Taylor when the ball was next out of play. Mogan, a resident of Dovecot, Liverpool, denies the accusations of racially aggravated behavior. As the court session unfolded, it was disclosed that Mogan, who uses a wheelchair, continued to shout further abuse at Semenyo, who chose not to engage and proceeded with the game. Witnesses in the court described Mogan as appearing agitated and angry, with video evidence presented showing him in this state. It was claimed that he even threw chewing gum at Semenyo, hitting him on the side of his shorts. Liverpool supporter Neil Sherratt, who was seated next to Mogan, testified that he saw the fan approach the pitch from the disabled section and heard him shout something along the lines of 'hurry up.' Sherratt noted Semenyo's shocked expression, believing the player responded with 'you what?' Another fan, Nicholas Collins, described how Mogan's demeanor changed after the incident, saying he became 'very cocky and brazen,' even threatening police if they intervened. During a police interview the following day, Mogan claimed he was simply urging Semenyo to hurry up and suggested that the player had insulted him by calling him 'a cripple.' He also insisted the chewing gum was tossed to the ground, not at Semenyo. The prosecution argued that Mogan had been untruthful during his police statements. As the trial continues, Semenyo is set to provide his testimony via videolink, while Mogan maintains his denial of the charges.