Liverpool condemned a "racist" banner depicting Divock Origi that was displayed in the away end before their Champions League clash with Genk in Belgium on Wednesday. The banner appeared to show Origi's head photoshopped onto a naked body alongside the Champions League trophy. It was removed before the start of the match, which Liverpool won 4-1.

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Liverpool's say on the matter

A club statement said,  "Liverpool Football Club condemns the offensive banner displayed in our section of the ground, prior to kick-off.

"To be clear, the image used perpetuated a racist stereotype. This is completely unacceptable.

"We acted swiftly to have the banner removed and we are now working with the local authorities and stadium team in Genk to identify those responsible."Any subsequent action will be taken in keeping with our sanctions process." Asked for his reaction after the game, manager Jurgen Klopp replied: "I didn't see it yet but I heard we already gave a statement so I have nothing to add."

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Liverpool register a comfortable win

Liverpool went on to win the game 4-1 and Origi came on as a second-half substitute. A player in the Genk academy as a youngster, the Belgian international was given a warm welcome from the home supporters when he came on and at the end of the match. 

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Genk denied equaliser

Genk were encouraged by an extremely high Liverpool defensive line and their skipper Mbwana Ally Samatta missed a great chance to grab a quick-fire equaliser after bursting through on goal. His strike partner, Paul Onuachu, and Japanese international Junya Ito both squandered chances soon after. Genk also thought they had drawn level before the half-hour when Samatta headed in an Ito cross. However, the goal was disallowed with a VAR review confirming Ito was marginally offside in the build-up. Liverpool got their second goal in the 57th minute as Roberto Firmino set up Oxlade-Chamberlain, whose shot with the outside of his right boot went in off the underside of the bar from 20 yards. That was Liverpool's 200th Champions League goal, but it was not their last of the night, as Salah slipped in Mane to make it 3-0 on 77 minutes. Salah then controlled a Mane pass with his back to goal, turned and slotted in with three minutes left, before Odey's consolation for Genk moments later. Another Liverpool win when these teams meet at Anfield next month will leave them on the brink of the last 16. 

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