Junior Nsemba describes racist abuse's impact on his family

England rugby league player Junior Nsemba has spoken for the first time about racist abuse he faced in the summer and his wish to support young people experiencing similar hostility.

In an interview published by The Guardian on October 12 ahead of the World Cup, the 22-year-old Wigan forward said social media comments had particularly affected his family. He described feeling upset and disappointed, with his relatives' distress becoming his main concern.

The abuse followed Wigan Warriors' summer win over St Helens at Magic Weekend. The club reported it to police, and a 56-year-old man was arrested. Nsemba credited chief executive Kris Radlinski and head coach Matt Peet with providing important support while he was also recovering from a serious injury.

He supports the Rugby Football League's Respect campaign, which spans the community game and professional competition. He wants young black people, including his seven-year-old brother, to see that they can pursue their chosen paths despite hostility.

Nsemba's parents moved to England from Cameroon before he was born. Former Liverpool defender Rigobert Song is his uncle, and Alex Song is his cousin. Both represented Cameroon at football World Cups. Nsemba said he hoped to continue the family's sporting tradition in his own sport.

England begin their World Cup campaign against Tonga in Perth on October 17. This will be Nsemba's first World Cup. Having started at amateur club Wigan St Judes, he sees the tournament as the next stage of his career.