Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn has reiterated the club's determination to stamp out racism in football.

His comments came after striker Darren Bent claimed his mother Shirley was subjected to racist abuse from a fan in the wake of the Black Cats' 1-0 defeat at Wigan last weekend.

A 26-year-old Chester-le-Street man was arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated harassment in connection with the alleged incident earlier this week and was later released on police bail.

But Quinn has moved to re-affirm the club's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

He told the club's official website: "Racism is not just an issue for football or sport, it's something that society as a whole must tackle.

"But we can use the power of football as a catalyst for change.

"It is important that all agencies work together with a consistent message to help communities recognise and value differences.

"Look at the diversity of the Premier League - there are players from every continent and here at Sunderland we have players from a whole host of countries.

"Their ethnic origin or cultural background is irrelevant, but what is important is the great team spirit they share and their love for our football club.

"There is no place for racism of any kind within the game and our wider community, and this is a fundamental belief that I know Sunderland fans share with me."

Sunderland were recently presented with anti-racism organisation Kick It Out's 'preliminary level equality standard' for professional clubs.