Italian football’s reputation around the world has been damaged by the racist abuse Ghanaian player Sulley Muntari received and the reaction to it, the Italian Football Federation’s anti-racism advisor says.

Fiona May said the decision to uphold the Pescara midfielder’s punishment for protesting against racism while taking no action against fans had “sent a bad message”.

Muntari was booked for complaining to the referee about abuse he received from some Cagliari fans and received a second yellow card for leaving the pitch without permission.

May added she would strike in protest if she were a player.

“I’m frustrated and shocked,” she said.

Ex-Tottenham player and BBC football pundit Garth Crooks – a trustee of anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out – has called for Italy’s players to go on strike in protest at Muntari’s treatment and the the lack of punishment for the fans responsible.