FORMER Southend United player Theo Robinson has spoken of his sadness after a Shrimpers supporter received a five year ban for racially abusing him.

The former Blues striker’s abuser cannot watch Southend United or England until 2025 and was also fined after being found guilty of abusing Robinson during a match against Coventry City at Birmingham City’s St Andrew’s ground in August 2019.

But Robinson felt the punishment was not strong enough.

In an emotional Instagram post, he said: “He’s got a five year ban from Southend and England games and a small fine but I don’t think that’s much justice at all to be honest.

“I wish I was there in the court because I’ve been told he was saying he has black mates which is a typical response and it’s just not on.

“His boss was there to give him a character reference and he’s been found guilty - so is something going to happen about that? We don’t know.

Robinson, who made 104 appearances for Blues and is also due to line up for Port Vale at Roots Hall on Saturday, also said he felt his former club could have handled the situation better.

He added: “My club at the time could’ve put a statement out or backed me or supported me and an inquest could’ve happened to see what happened,” said Robinson, 31.

“It was one of their fans and it happened the week before to Elvis (Bwomono) but nothing was said about it.

“Something came out in the media but it was brushed under the carpet and it’s not on.”

And Robinson also wants the game’s authorities to do more to tackle the issue.

“It’s happened before my time, during my time and after my time but something needs to change,” said Robinson.

“It’s not on and something needs to happen.

“The powers that be, the PFA and the FA need to step up.

“I was living in Southend and I tried to raise awareness but I put it off because is there a point really?

“There needs to be education and awareness programmes because this is ridiculous and it’s still happening.”

Southend United was contacted repeatedly for a response to Robinson’s post but no response was received.