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Griffiths investigated over 'racist' tweet

Leigh Griffiths could face further sanctions © PA Photos

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Hibernian's on-loan striker Leigh Griffiths is to be investigated by Edinburgh police amid claims that he sent a racist tweet.

Griffths, 22, who is on loan from Wolves, allegedly told a man to "f*** off back to your own country ya clown'' during an angry online exchange on the social network site.

The Scotland international, who has almost 13,000 followers, posted the comment on Thursday night. The tweet has since been removed from his Twitter page.

Lothian and Borders Police have confirmed that they started carrying out early enquiries after they were made aware of Griffiths' alleged comments.

A spokesman said: "We have been made aware of this matter, and we are carrying out initial enquiries.''

Griffiths was responding to a tweet from a Twitter user believed to be based in Livingston, West Lothian, who had questioned his looks. The striker later insisted he was not a racist and apologised for his comment.

A Hibs spokesman confirmed on Friday that the club will be taking action against the former Livingston and Dundee man.

He said: "Hibernian FC today confirmed that it had spoken to player Leigh Griffiths about exchanges on a social media website. The player had realised that despite the provocation, the language he used was totally unacceptable and had already apologised for what he said. The player has closed access to the account.

"The player supports the club and the whole of Scottish football in its stance against racism, bigotry and anti-social behaviour. The player will be subject to a disciplinary process which will be a private matter between the club and the player.''

A Wolves spokesman added: "Wolves are aware of an alleged racist comment made on Twitter last night by Leigh Griffiths. The club condemns such comments in the strongest possible terms and are extremely angry and disappointed.

"The player is currently on loan at Hibernian FC and is likely to remain there for the rest of the season. He is, therefore, subject to the disciplinary procedures of Hibernian FC and those of the Scottish Football Association. However, Wolves are in dialogue with Hibernian and are making their feelings known on the matter.''

Griffiths' Wolves deal expires at the end of the season but the club have an option to extend it until the summer of 2014.

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