The Premier League launched an investigation on Saturday night after Arsenal players reported a substitute was subjected to racist abuse during their 4-1 victory at Elland Road. 

The alleged incident took place in the 34th minute while Arsenal were leading 2-0 courtesy of a brace by Gabriel Martinelli. Rob Holding, who was among the substitutes, alerted fourth official John Brooks to abuse aimed at the Arsenal bench from the crowd. 

Referee Andre Marriner briefly stopped play and consulted Arsenal players before re-starting the game. “Unfortunately, I can confirm this happened,” said Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal head coach, who suggested just one supporter may have been involved. 

“Players sitting on the bench heard the comments, but I cannot say who was being abused: everyone will have to be interviewed. It was reported to the stadium manager and the authorities will deal with it.” 

A visibly frustrated Marcelo Bielsa condemned “all acts of discrimination” when questioned about the allegation after the final whistle. 

“It’s incredible that you ask me this question, what can I answer you? Of course I’m against all acts of discrimination,” Bielsa said as he appeared to cut short his post-match interview. The Premier League is now investigating.

Goals from Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe inflicted another heavy defeat for Leeds following their 7-0 loss to Manchester City on Tuesday. The home side briefly threatened to stage a late fightback when Raphinha converted a penalty to make it 3-1.

The match at Elland Road was the only fixture to go ahead on Saturday after Aston Villa’s home game against Burnley was called off little more than two hours before kick off in another Covid-enforced cancellation. Many Burnley fans had already made the 117-mile journey to Birmingham and were understandably furious at the decision.