Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku says he wants the club’s fans to “move on” from their controversial chant about him.
Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out have described the lyrics, about the size of the 24-year-old’s penis, as “offensive and discriminatory”.
“Great backing since I joined #MUFC,” Lukaku was quoted as saying on United’s official Twitter account.
“Fans have meant well with their songs but let’s move on together.”
The tweet ends: “#RespectEachOther”.
“Racist stereotypes are never acceptable, irrespective of any intention to show support for a player,” said Kick It Out earlier this week.
United posted on social media ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup win over Burton Albion – in which Belgium forward Lukaku was an unused substitute – that “action will be taken against any offensive behaviour”, reminding supporters of the club’s commitment to racial harmony.
Midway through the first half a chant was heard at Old Trafford about Lukaku but with fans having appeared to tweak the words.
Lukaku joined United for an initial £75m from Everton during the summer in a deal that could rise to £90m.
He has scored five Premier League goals in five games for his new club as well as finding the net in the 3-0 Champions League group win over Basel.
Lukaku also scored in the European Super Cup against Real Madrid last month.
BBC Sports