Aberdeen to be reported to SFA as player 'vehemently denies' alleged racial comment

It followed an off-the-ball clash between Bokila and Dons defender Jack Milne which took place during the second half of Livingston's 6-2 defeat at Pittodrie on Saturday and resulted in both players being shown a red card by referee Ross Hardie.

Livingston manager David Martindale said afterwards that former DR Congo international Bokila was left in tears in the away dressing room. "I've got a 37-year-old striker in there crying, so I'll need to go and try and get to the bottom of that one," Martindale said.

Aberdeen have vowed to co-operate with any investigation but stated that the player involved strongly denies the allegations.

A Dons statement read: "The Club is aware of an allegation that racist language was used during today’s match with Livingston FC at Pittodrie. The player concerned has been informed of the allegation and vehemently denies it.

"Aberdeen FC condemns any and all forms of discrimination and we will co-operate fully with all relevant authorities during any investigation.

"While this process is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further."

Kevin Nisbet and Topi Keskinen both scored braces as Aberdeen ended a run of six Premiership games without a victory.

Kenan Bilalovic opened the scoring for the Dons in the ninth minute after stabbing home at the back post from a corner before Mahamadou Susoho responded for Livingston.

The visitors then took the lead for the first time in the game when Robbie Muirhead struck, but two goals from Nisbet four minutes apart in first-half stoppage-time sent Aberdeen back in front.

A chaotic game saw both teams have players dismissed with Bokila and Milne sent off before Sivert Heltne Nilsen’s effort extended Aberdeen’s lead. The Dons then wrapped up three points with a late brace from Keskinen.