This season matches across Europe have been punctuated by repeated outbursts of racism.

Ahead of the European Championship finals in Poland and Ukraine last summer, UEFA president Michel Platini had urged players to allow the referee to deal with the problem of racist abuse, and stressed that officials could stop games if necessary.

Boateng spent a sleepless night after his walkout, but promised to carry on his campaign to highlight the abuse he could experience in the future.

"I love the game so much that I would never quit football because of some stupid people."

After playing at youth level for Germany, Boateng decided to represent Ghana.

During the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Boateng featured for Ghana in group game against Germany, with his brother Jerome playing for the European side in their 1-0 win.