A police investigation has been opened after allegations Everton fans racially abused the families of Brentford players during the game on Sunday.

Brentford striker Ivan Toney and full-back Rico Henry reported on social media racism towards their relatives at Goodison Park.

"For the man that racially abused my family, I'll do everything I can to get you the punishment you deserve," wrote Toney on Twitter.

Henry, who scored the winning goal in Sunday's 3-2 victory over Everton, said an incident of racial abuse his mother suffered "brought fire to my stomach" and demanded a full investigation.

Shortly after Toney's post was published, Henry wrote: "I never usually speak out on things that don't physically harm me or my family but to see my mom upset after being racially abused by a few Everton fans brought fire to my stomach!

"I will do anything for them & whatever it takes to get the small minority punished! This is not acceptable & must be investigated immediately."

Merseyside police confirmed on Sunday night an investigation had been opened while Everton vowed to ban for life any fan found guilty.

Detective Inspector Catherine Cox said: "No matter what football team you support, there is absolutely no place for hate anywhere in Merseyside under any circumstances.

"Merseyside Police has investigated and successfully prosecuted so-called fans for racial abuse inside football stadia, and offenders have been handed football banning orders along with a criminal record for their behaviour."

A 43-year-old female Everton supporter was banned from matches for three years in February after she was found guilty of shouting racist abuse at Burnley's Dwight McNeil during a game at Goodison Park.

DI Cox added: "We will support the victims in this case and work with Everton Football Club to find those responsible and bring them to justice. Their views and their abuse is not welcome here in Merseyside, and they do not represent the overwhelming majority of football fans."