Juninho Bacuna: Fan arrested on suspicion of racially abusing Birmingham City midfielder

Juninho Bacuna was allegedly racially abused by a fan while playing against West Bromwich Albion

A man has been arrested on suspicion of racially abusing Birmingham City's Juninho Bacuna in Saturday's derby against West Bromwich Albion.

The 50-year-old from Dudley was detained and questioned by police and has had his season ticket suspended by West Brom.

The Baggies beat their Championship rivals 1-0 at The Hawthorns through Andi Weimann's 85th-minute winner.

West Brom said anyone found guilty of racism would receive a lifetime ban.

Albion had warned fans about their behaviour before the fixture following their FA Cup fourth round match against fierce rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers the week before, where the game had to be stopped as trouble erupted in the stands.

West Midlands Police have appealed for witnesses to Saturday's incident which took place in the West Stand late on in the game.

Blues winger Bacuna reported the alleged racism to referee David Webb, the second time he has reported such an incident this season.

"The club continues to offer its full support to West Midlands Police's criminal investigation of this matter and remains in contact with Birmingham City to ensure Juninho Bacuna receives the support he requires," West Brom said in a statement.

"The club takes a strong stance against all forms of discrimination and will do all it can to ensure anyone found guilty of racism faces the toughest available legal punishment, in addition to a lifetime ban from The Hawthorns.

"Albion will continue to work with the Football Association, the EFL and all relevant authorities to rid the game of racism."