New Bolton signing apologises after racist and homophobic tweets re-surface

Bolton Wanderers have issued a statement condemning historical discriminatory tweets published by their brand new signing Dion Charles.

Striker Charles only joined the League One side on New Year's Day, arriving from Accrington Stanley in a deal thought to be worth £320,000.

But with the ink on his contract barely dry, controversy has arisen regarding a number of tweets sent out by Charles when he was a teenager.

The tweets, which are allegedly racist and homophobic, date between 2011 and 2013 when Charles would have been between 15 and 18.

After the historic messages surfaced online earlier this week, Charles posted a lengthy apology.

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In it, he said: "There is no place in football or society as a whole for discriminatory and hateful views and I want to make it clear that I have grown up considerably since I posted those tweets many years ago.

"I am not racist and I am not homophobic."

The Football Association are now investigating the messages, which could result in disciplinary action for the player.

Today, Charles' new club have released a statement condemning the actions but insist the 26-year-old will "learn a very valuable lesson".

Bolton's chairman Sharon Brittan said: "I am aware that some tweets which Dion Charles posted several years ago contained discriminatory and deeply offensive words.

"Myself and Bolton Wanderers Football Club do not condone any forms of discrimination whatsoever and, quite simply, there is no place for it in football or society in general.

"What was said in those posts was completely unacceptable and I am pleased that Dion has taken full responsibility for his actions and unreservedly apologised for the hurt and embarrassment caused.

"Whilst not making any excuses for him, I have spoken with Dion and he has acknowledged that he has grown up considerably since he posted those comments and that he is not racist or homophobic.

"Through Bolton Wanderers in the Community, the Club seeks to be at the forefront of making our game inclusive for everybody and Dion fully supports this.

"My own faith is incredibly important to me and, amongst many other things, it has also taught me to offer forgiveness. I know that Dion will learn a very valuable lesson from this and the football club will offer any support he needs going forward."

Manager Ian Evatt was also quoted, saying that Charles "fully understands the magnitude of his actions and will do everything he can to support the club in making football a game that welcomes everybody."

Charles' last senior game was back on October 12 for Northern Ireland, whilst his last taste of club football was almost four months ago, for Stanley.

He could make his Bolton debut on Tuesday night, when they travel to Hartlepool in an EFL Trophy last-16 tie.