Ghana international Antoine Semenyo allegedly racially abused at Anfield

Referee Anthony Taylor stopped play in the 29th minute after Semenyo had informed the official of the incident with Liverpool and Bournemouth captains, Virgil van Dijk and Adam Smith, then called over to the benches to be briefed before the match resumed four minutes later.

Local police confirmed a 47-year-old man was ejected from the stadium.

The 25-year-old Semenyo went on to score twice in 12 second-half minutes but it was not enough for the visitors as they went down 4-2 to the defending champions.

Bournemouth skipper Smith told Sky Sports after the game: "Totally unacceptable. Kind of in shock it happened in this day and age. I don't know how Ant has carried on playing and come up with these goals.

"He's a little bit down - something needs to be done. Taking a knee has taken no effect. We've supported him and hopefully he'll be OK.

"I wanted him to react (after scoring) - that's what I'd have done. I'd have gone straight over there. It shows what kind of man he is to report it to the ref and carry on. Fair play to Ant."

Liverpool issued a statement, saying: "Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against AFC Bournemouth.

"We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football.

"The club is unable to comment further as tonight's alleged incident is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, which we will support fully."