A number of figures from the football world have come out in support of Kevin-Prince Boateng following alleged racist abuse towards the AC Milan forward.

Boateng walked off the pitch during a friendly between Milan and Pro Patia on Thursday having been apparently subjected to offensive chants from fans of the lower-league side.

The Ghana international was followed by his teammates before the match was abandoned.

The Italian Football Association have since launched an immediate investigation into the incident.

Manchester City and Belgian captain Vincent Kompany: "I can only salute Milan's decision to leave the pitch. Also noted that the majority of the fans were completely supportive of the players."

Former Arsenal and France midfielder Patrick Vieira: "It was brave of Kevin Prince Boateng to do what he did today, and it was the right thing. We need to stand up and stand together. Well done."

Reading striker Jason Roberts: "Congratulations to AC Milan players and Kevin Prince Boateng for walking of the Pitch due to Racist abuse..."

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand: "If the stories about KPB walking off the pitch with teammate's after being racially abused are true,fair play to him..well done"

Stoke City striker Michael Owen: "That Prince Boatang footage from the Milan game is shocking. Shame it takes a player to do that instead of the authorities being proactive."