Police say 12yo boy who racially abused Premier League star Wilfried Zaha is 'extremely remorseful' after diversity education

West Midlands police have said the 12-year-old boy arrested for sending racist abuse to Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha is “extremely remorseful” for his actions after receiving education on diversity and discrimination.

A spokesperson for the police said the 27-year-old endorsed their education of the youngster in conjunction with the anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out.

The police said: “The boy was extremely remorseful for his actions and has received education sessions as part of the restorative justice process.

“This was victim-supported and led by Kick It Out.

“The sessions provided a greater understanding of equality, diversity, discrimination and what is unacceptable behavior.

“They also highlighted the impact of hate crime on others and further punishments if he re-offends. We continue to work with the boy and there has been no repeat offending since.”

Zaha brought attention to the abuse - having been sent racist threats and images of the Ku Klux Klan - on social media before the Eagles’ 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa in July.

West Midlands police subsequently announced on Twitter they had made an arrest in connection with the abuse having taken the 12-year-old from Solihull into custody.

Zaha thanked the police for their “swift action” in the matter and said: “We need action, we need education, things to change.”

The Ivory Coast international has made four appearances for Palace this season, scoring four goals.