Italy probes Makinwa abuse claims

Oluwashina Okeleji
BBC Sport, Lagos

Makinwa claims he was racially abused by Reggina's Aronica

The Italian Football Federation has opened an investigation into allegations that Nigerian striker Stephen Makinwa was racially abused by a fellow player on Sunday.

Makinwa, who plays for Lazio, claims he was racially abused by Salvatore Aronica during their 3-2 win over Reggina.

"My team manager [Maurizio Manzini] and I will be talking to officials of the Italian federation tomorrow (Wednesday) about the incident," Makinwa told BBC Sport.

The 23-year-old Nigerian came on as a substitute and scored the winner as Lazio snatched the important away win.

But Makinwa, who has been playing in Italy since 2000, was in no mood for celebration claiming that Aronica racially insulted him.

"We had a bit of clash in midfield and straight after the incident he insulted me," Makinwa told BBC Sport.

"I decided not to react at the time as it would have triggered a fracas on the field.

"But I had to reveal everything at the post-match conference to set the record straight.

"It's a shame that a fellow professional would descend so low to indulge in such a shameful act."

Aronica, has however, denied the claims by the Nigerian international striker.

"I am sorry that Makinwa said these things at the press conference, but I absolutely deny using a racist phrase against him," Aronica said.

Makinwa, who joined SS Lazio from rivals Palermo last year, says he will not be drawn into an argument with the Reggina defender.

"I've lived my life happily here in Italy without any controversy and would not like to get drawn in one.

"This is a serious incident and I'm glad an investigation into the matter has been opened.

"When they arrive here I will make my position known, which I think is appropriate."