The Premier League's defending champions are looking into the issue.

Manchester City has issued a statement in response to allegations of fans racially abusing Manchester United players in Saturday's Premier League encounter. The Citizens have confirmed that they are working with the police in investigating into the matter in which Red Devils' pair Jesse Lingard and Fred were alleged victims.

Goals by Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial secured a remarkable 2-1 victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side with Nicolas Otamendi grabbing Pep side's only goal. While numerous controversies which ensued during the encounter would have been the talk of the town, an apparent racism incident has marred what was a afternoon of good football.

In a footage which emerged on the internet in the aftermath of the clash, Manchester United's Fred was seen to have been struck by an object as he prepared to take a corner at a point in the encounter. Another footage also showed a number of fans making offensive gestures at Jesse Lingard in the second half.

A City statement read: "Manchester City FC are aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show a supporter making racial gestures during the second half of the match against Manchester United this evening.

"Officials from the Club are working with Greater Manchester Police in order to help them identify any individuals concerned and assist with their enquiries. The Club are also working with GMP regarding an instance of objects being thrown onto the field of play.

"The Club operates a zero tolerance policy regarding discrimination of any kind, and anyone found guilty of racial abuse will be banned from the club for life."

Scorer of Manchester United's opening goal, Marcus Rashford also responded to the alleged racial abuse incident after the game. Asked whether he saw the incidents in the course of the game, he replied:  "No, not during the game but it can happen," he said.

"In recent times, we have been dealing with it a bit better but the fact it is still happening isn't good enough.

"There is obviously still some work to do in that area.

"But for us, it is about the football and what we do on the pitch."