racially

Luis Suarez has been handed an eight-game ban and fined 40,000 after being found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra during Liverpool’s Premier League game with Manchester United at Anfield in October. The pair clashed repeatedly in the second half of the 1-1 draw on 15 October, and Evra claimed Suarez racially abused him “at [detalii...]

MIAMI (AP) -- Heat forward LeBron James says he isnt affected by people sending him negative and often racially charged messages on [detalii...]

Twenty five years after Martin Luther King Jr.s life was first honored with a national holiday, black and white sports fans alike view the sports world as far more racially progressive and unifying than the rest of [detalii...]

England football captain will stand trial accused of making offensive comment at QPR defender in Premier League matchThe England football captain, John Terry, denies racially abusing Anton Ferdinand and will stand trial, a court has heard.The player did not attend the short hearing at Westminster magistrates court in London. His barrister, George Carter-Stephenson QC, entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf.Terry, 31, is accused of a racially aggravated public order offence over video footage that appeared to show him shouting an offensive comment at the QPR defender Ferdinand during a Premier League match in October.More details soon ... John TerryChelseaQPR guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Luis Suarez has been banned and fined after the FA ruled he racially abused Patrice Evra but the striker insists there has been a misunderstanding. Has he been dealt with too [detalii...]

England captain John Terry faces a criminal charge over allegations that he racially abused an opponent in the Premier [detalii...]

Uruguayan found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra Striker will miss Tuesdays game against Manchester CityLiverpool will not appeal against Luis Suarezs eight-match ban for racially abusing the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra, the Football Association has confirmed.A statement on the FA website on Tuesday evening said: "Liverpool FC have this afternoon informed the FA that they will not be appealing the decision of an Independent Regulatory Commission in relation to the recently proven misconduct charge against Luis Suarez."Suarez will be suspended with immediate effect for a period of eight matches, starting with this evenings fixture against Manchester City. Suarez was also fined 40,000 and was warned as to his future conduct."Luis SuarezLiverpoolThe FAPremier League 2011-12Premier League guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Families of Victor Obinna and Frederic Piquionne involved The club takes such matters seriously, say West HamWest Ham are investigating claims that the families of their players Victor Obinna and Frederic Piquionne were racially abused by spectators at the weekend during Saturdays 4-2 home defeat to the Premier League leaders Manchester United."The club takes such matters seriously and, with the police, is reviewing CCTV footage and gathering witness information. Anyone found responsible will be dealt with appropriately," read a club statement.Reports have emerged that guests of the two strikers were involved in a confrontation with a small group of supporters during the game.According to the reports, the families were racially abused while sitting in a box in the Main Stand.West Ham UnitedManchester United guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Co-owner Sullivan claims drunken fan to blame for fracas A player was racially abused by the same drunken supporterThe West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan has claimed that a drunken supporter racially abused a player, sparking the brawl that marred the clubs end-of-season dinner on Monday night. The event was spoiled by a disturbance between supporters and players which caused the police to be called to the Grosvenor Hotel in central London.Sullivan told Sky Sports News: "The whole incident has been blown out of all proportion. It was one individual that had too much to drink, sadly a problem in British society. A player was racially abused by the same drunken supporter which is totally unacceptable. Sadly one drunken supporter has let the club down."It is thought the player in question may be Demba Ba, who according to witnesses, was also at the centre of the row after he allegedly refused to sign an autograph. Trouble apparently flared once the clubs co-owner David Gold had delivered a speech in which he had pledged the teams stay in the Championship would be brief after relegation was confirmed at Wigan Athletic on Sunday.Witnesses claimed supporters then reacted badly after Ba supposedly turned down the autograph request, with other players, including Manuel da Costa, confronted in the ensuing melee.Plates and glasses were apparently broken in the brief fracas that followed, with a group of supporters running from the function suite out of the hotel, pursued by security staff.West Ham UnitedJamie Jackson guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Northumbria police arrest 21-year-old Joshua Cryer to appear before magistratesA 21-year-old man has been charged with racially abusing the former Premier League footballer and pundit Stan Collymore on Twitter. Northumbria police said Joshua Cryer, of Jesmond, Newcastle, was charged last night with "a Section Five racial public order offence and a Section Five public order offence".A police spokesman added that Cryer would appear before Newcastle magistrates on Monday January 23.Northumbria police began an investigation in the early hours of Saturday after an allegation was passed on from colleagues in Staffordshire.Collymore, 40, who is from Cannock in Staffordshire, played for clubs including Liverpool, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest. He works as a broadcaster for Talksport radio, campaigns against racism and is a supporter of the Depression Alliance.Twitter guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Leinster Rugby have confirmed that they will hold an internal enquiry into Brian Mujati's claim that he was racially abused during Northampton Saints' friendly victory over the province on Friday [detalii...]

Alleged incident took place in Barnstaple last night British No3 writes on Twitter she is fuming and disgustedThree men have been arrested by Devon police following allegations by the British tennis player Anne Keothavong that she was racially abused, according to the BBC.The former British No1 is due to play in a tournament in Barnstaple, which begins today.A police statement said: "Police can confirm that a 27-year-old woman from London has made an allegation of a racially aggravated incident."Three men aged 20, 23, 25 have been arrested for this offence and for a separate shoplifting incident. They remain in police custody waiting to be interviewed. Police investigations continue."Keothavong wrote on Twitter that she was "fuming and disgusted" by the alleged incident, adding: "I was on my own and completely outnumbered. Gave a statement to police, hoping CCTV will get them."The Hackney-born player is among five top-100 players set to compete in the seven-day tournament, which she won in 2008.Anne KeothavongTennis guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2010 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

This week the Liverpool team wore T-shirts of Luis Suarez before their match against Wigan to express support for the striker who was ruled to have racially abused Patrice Evra, a finding he contests. Was this gesture [detalii...]

With several top soccer players facing allegations they made racially abusive comments at opponents on the field, FIFA President Sepp Blatter sparked an angry reaction on Wednesday by suggesting such incidents could settled with [detalii...]

Yellowed cover pages of South Africas iconic Drum magazine evoke a 1950s black fashion and jazz culture which perished when apartheid forces razed Sophiatown, a racially-mixed Johannesburg [detalii...]

Luis Suarez has revealed his dismay at being handed an eight-game ban by the Football Association for racially abusing Patrice Evra after Liverpool announced they would not be appealing the ruling. The 24-year-old was hit with the suspension and 40,000 fine after an independent regulatory commission found him guilty of making racist comments at left-back [detalii...]

Striker dismisses reports of incidents at Upton Park Obinna: I didnt have any of my relatives at the gameThe West Ham forward Victor Obinna, whose family were allegedly racially abused by fans at Upton Park on Saturday, has revealed that none of his relatives were in the country at the time.Reports at the weekend claimed Obinna and Frederic Piquionnes families suffered abuse during West Hams 4-2 defeat to Manchester United, with guests of the two strikers allegedly involved in a confrontation with a small group of fans.The reports prompted the club to launch an immediate investigation, but Nigeria international Obinna, 24, has now categorically denied claims of racism."Nothing happened - I do not have any of my family members in England. There is no point asking me to confirm or verify an incident that never happened - I was in total shock when I heard and read about it in the papers."I didnt have any of my relatives at the game and I do not know anyone who complained of any racial incident at the game."The clubs co-chairman David Sullivan said on Monday he was "appalled" by reports the families were racially abused while sitting in a box in the Main Stand.West Ham released an official statement denouncing the behaviour and promising a full investigation into the allegations, a move welcomed by footballs equality and inclusion campaign, Kick It Out.Kick It Out spokesman Danny Lynch said yesterday: "Weve always advocated a zero tolerance approach to any form of discrimination in the game."This sort of thing gives the perception that it sets us back and I think it masks all the hard work clubs like West Ham do. We welcome West Hams very proactive stance yesterday, with David Sullivan coming out saying he would investigate it and I think that is what we need."West Ham are a very community-focused club anyway and they have seen the incident as a blot on the rest of the supporters so there is no doubt they will take the action that needs to be done."Tottenham HotspurWest Ham United guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

John Terry insists he is fully focused on captaining England against Sweden on Tuesday, despite the ongoing investigation into claims he racially abused Anton Ferdinand. The Metropolitan Police have been looking into the incident, which is alleged to have taken place during Chelsea’s defeat at Queens Park Rangers last month. But the England captain says [detalii...]

Queens Park Rangers and Chelsea have released a joint statement warning fans that they will take action against anyone using discriminatory language during the FA Cup fourth-round clash on Saturday. The game will be the first time that the two London sides have met since Chelsea captain John Terry was charged with racially abusing Anton [detalii...]

A Scottish evening paper had reported the arrest of a Nigerian, who allegedly acted in a racially aggravated manner at a local restaurant in Aberdeen Scotland on Wednesday, July 7. The Nigerian, multiple award winning contemporary gospel artiste, Sammie Okposo, was reportedly charged to court and released on bail until further hearing in September, [detalii...]

Club confirms their players will not echo Liverpools support of Luis Suarez as skipper faces race abuse chargesChelsea have confirmed they rejected a proposal for their players to wear T-shirts in support of captain John Terry.Some of the Blues squad and staff had raised the prospect of donning supportive slogans on their tops, showing their backing for Terry, who has been charged with racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.Liverpool were heavily criticised in some quarters for allowing their players to wear T-shirts in support of Luis Suarez during the warm-up before Wednesday nights Premier League game at Wigan, following the strikers eight-match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra.Chelsea, who fully back Terry in his fight to clear his name, did not want to risk emulating something that could be viewed as provocative or construed as a potential contempt of court offence ahead of Terrys hearing at west London magistrates court on 1 February.A club spokesman said: "We were aware of the idea being discussed among some of the players and staff."The club fully supports John but did not think the wearing of T-shirts was an appropriate or helpful show of that support."ChelseaJohn TerryRace issues guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Liverpool’s Luis Suarez was handed an eight-match ban and a 40,000 fine by the Football Association after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra on Tuesday. It leaves Kenny Dalglish with a selection dilemma as the Liverpool manager prepares for eight league games without their Uruguayan talisman. Here are five options available [detalii...]

Warren Moon, the first African-American quarterback to be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the adviser for Cam Newton told CBSSports.com that he believes some of the criticism of the Auburn quarterback is based in [detalii...]

Comments come after incident with Oldham player We are deeply sorry for what happened, Dalglish saidKenny Dalglish has used his programme notes to say Liverpool "will not tolerate" racism and discrimination in football. The Reds have been criticised their handling of Luis Suarezs unsuccessful defence against allegations he racially abused Manchester Uniteds Patrice Evra. Last week the Oldham defender Tom Adeyemi was allegedly racially abused at Anfield by a fan, for which a man was later arrested."Whatever the outcome of that investigation we are deeply sorry for what happened," Dalglish wrote in the programme for the match against Stoke City. "We do not want and will not tolerate racism or discrimination anywhere near football and certainly not anywhere near this football club."The club is blessed with a worldwide fanbase, made up of different nationalities and diverse cultures, all of whom come together as part of the Liverpool family. The club will continue its proud record of fighting all forms of discrimination."Past, present or future, it has no place at Anfield, in our club or in the game.. We will give any help we can to Tom, Oldham Athletic and the police to ensure this incident is dealt with properly."Captain Steven Gerrard echoed the sentiments of his manager, adding in his programme notes: "Such incidents have no place in society, in football or at LFC. As a football club we have always supported anti-racism initiatives and our fans are well-known for their sporting nature and good humour. Any other type of behaviour will not be tolerated." Kenny DalglishLiverpool guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Jack Rodwell and Daniel Sturridge have both been given their first senior England call-ups for the forthcoming friendlies against Spain and Sweden. Fabio Capello has also included captain John Terry in his 25-man squad, despite the ongoing investigation into allegations he racially abused Anton Ferdinand during Chelsea’s defeat by QPR last month. Wayne Rooney, who [detalii...]

Kenny Dalglish has revealed that Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was "emotional and very grateful" for the support of his team-mates after a difficult week. Suarez was handed an eight-game ban and a 40,000 fine by the Football Association after the 24-year-old was charged for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. The Liverpool squad released [detalii...]

Zimbabwes Affirmative Action Group (AAG) announced this week that they were sending a delegation to South Africa to support Julius Malema, the highly controversial Youth League leader of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa. Malema is facing hate language charges due to his insistence on singing a racially charged ANC song from the liberation [detalii...]

Luis Suarez has been handed an eight-game ban and fined 40,000 after being found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra during Liverpools Premier League game with Manchester United at Anfield in October. Following the FA’s announcement, Liverpool released a statement, saying: “Liverpool Football Club is very surprised and disappointed with the decision of the Football [detalii...]

Liverpool forward Luis Suarez says he has been left “upset” by Patrice Evra’s allegations that he racially abused the Manchester United left-back in Saturday’s north-west derby. The Football Association confirmed on Saturday that they are investigating the alleged incident after Evra accused the Uruguayan of saying "a certain word to me at least 10 times". [detalii...]

Pepe Reina believes Luis Suarez is being "crucified" over his Football Association charge for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. The Liverpool striker was handed an eight-game ban and a 40,000 fine by the FA after he was found guilty of using “insulting words in reference to Manchester United defender Evra’s colour”. But Reina [detalii...]

The mainstream medias conspicuous silence about the racially motivated human rights abuses perpetrated against black Libyans and immigrants, by the NATO-backed Transitional National Council (TNC) forces in Libya, is disturbing. Similarly, the high civilian casualties of the current intense fighting in the city of Sirte seems, to a large extent, to be underplayed. Yet organisations such as Human Rights Watch have acknowledged that civilian abuses have continued and called on forces on both sides that are fighting in Sirte to minimize harm to civilians and treat all prisoners [detalii...]

Piara Powar criticises club for attitude to FA Supporter arrested after Oldham FA Cup tieThe head of European footballs anti-racism group believes Liverpools reaction to the Luis Suarez affair has whipped up "a tribal fervour" at Anfield.Piara Powar, the executive director of European footballs anti-discrimination body, Fare, said some supporters are reacting in a worrying manner after Liverpool mounted a sustained defence of their Uruguayan striker. Last month, Suarez was found guilty by a Football Association-appointed independent regulatory commission of racially abusing the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. He is now serving an eight-match ban.Powar has criticised Liverpool for their response to the Suarez affair, and earlier this week he urged the FA to charge Liverpool and their manager, Kenny Dalglish, with bringing the game into disrepute.On Sunday, Powar told the Sportsweek programme on BBC Radio Five Live: "If you look at the comments Dalglish has been making, if you look at how Liverpool resort to defend what they see as an injustice, look at the way their fans have been whipped up into a tribal fervour."Some of the words being used to describe the FA processes, some of the way to describe the FA and its role in governance on these sort of issues, that is really beyond the pale."Powar said Liverpool were not setting an appropriate example to their supporters: "The environment at Anfield is so driven - in terms of the paranoia that some fans feel - [by] expressions of injustice from Liverpool, especially over the last few weeks."There is a wider issue here of the way Liverpool have dealt with this and it has disconcerted many observers. It is a constant undermining of the FAs role as the governing body in football."Police have investigated allegations that the Oldham Athletic defender Tom Adeyemi was racially abused during Fridays FA Cup match at Anfield. A 20-year-old man from Aintree was yesterday arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, following the alleged incident.Liverpool, who beat Oldham 5-1, said on Saturday that they were also investigating the incident involving Adeyemi. The club issued a statement which said that they were continuing to work closely with the police to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Liverpool also said that they had supplied evidence to police, including CCTV footage and still photography and statements from stewards.Powar is also concerned by the levels of abuse aimed at footballers on social networking websites. Powar said he did not think the problem of racism was getting worse but he also said the problem was generated partly by "the way in which fans feel they can get on something like Twitter and make comments without accountability."There is nobody touching them on their shoulder looking at their comments and saying, No, that is not what is acceptable. I dont think the situation has been worse than its been for a long time but we are dealing with difficult issues here between players and the way in which the clubs have responded."LiverpoolLuis Suarez guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Crown Prosecution Service confirms Terry will be charged England captain to appear before court in February Pledges to fight tooth and nail to prove my innocenceThe Crown Prosecution Service has announced that John Terry will face criminal charges relating to an alleged racist slur aimed at the QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.Terry, who denies wrongdoing, will appear before West London magistrates court on 1 February 2012, charged with a racially aggravated public order offence.Reacting to the development, the Chelsea and England captain said: "I am disappointed with the decision to charge me and hope to be given the chance to clear my name as quickly as possible. I have never aimed a racist remark at anyone and count people from all races and creeds among my closest friends."I will fight tooth and nail to prove my innocence. I have campaigned against racism and believe there is no place for it in society."The news follows the CPSs recent confirmation that it had received additional evidence, thought to be new video footage of the incident, which allegedly occurred during Chelseas defeat at Loftus Road on 23 October.Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for London said: "I have today advised the Metropolitan police service that John Terry should be prosecuted for a racially aggravated public order offence following comments allegedly made during a Premier League football match between Queens Park Rangers and Chelsea on 23 October 2011."The decision was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and after careful consideration of all the evidence I am satisfied there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to prosecute this case."Mr Terry will appear before West London magistrates court on 1 February 2012. He is now summonsed with a criminal offence and has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice his trial."The CPS also released the full text of the charge against Terry, which reads: "On 23rd October 2011 at Loftus Road Stadium, London W12 you used threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, or disorderly behaviour within the hearing or sight of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress which was racially aggravated in accordance with section 28 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Contrary to section 31 (1) (c) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998."The Football Association is yet to respond to the latest development, but Chelsea said in a statement: "John has made it clear he denies the charge and is determined to do all he can to prove his innocence. Chelsea FC has always been fully supportive of John in this matter and will continue to be so."The club finds all forms of discrimination abhorrent and we are proud of the work we undertake campaigning on this important issue. Chelsea will not be commenting further on the subject while the legal process runs its course."John TerryChelseaQPR guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Full-back accused of making racially abusive comments Cockayne issued apology for any offence causedHull KR have fined their full-back Ben Cockayne a four-figure sum after police dropped their investigation into allegations that he had made racially abusive comments about a taxi driver on Facebook.Cockayne has also been ordered to attend a diversity awareness course and to spend 10 hours each week working within the clubs education and sport trust - a form of community service. Mike Smith, the Hull KR chief executive, said: "Ben has been fined the maximum amount possible under club and Rugby Football League rules and received a final written warning with regards to his future conduct."The club will be reviewing their social media policies with regards to employees and at present has reserved its decision whether to offer Ben terms of a new contract beyond the end of the current season."Cockayne said: "I am sorry and deeply regretful for any offence I have caused with what has happened. I have let the club, the fans and my family down. I hope people will understand this was a lapse in judgement and that once again, I am unreserved in my apologies for any offence this has caused."I am not a racist person and have many friends of different ethnic origins. They would concur that I am not a racist individual and I hope people that dont know me can appreciate that."The Cockayne controversy has been overshadowed by the problems Rovers have been having with their high-profile Australian import, Willie Mason. They are still refusing to make any public comment about the former Kangaroo tourist, but have not denied reports that they are currently withholding his wages while they investigate suggestions that he recently flew to France to hold talks with the Toulon rugby union club.Mason made six underwhelming appearances for the club but was then deregistered last month to allow the Australian scrum half Michael Dobson to regain his place on the overseas quota after recovering from injury. Rovers had been working to secure a Tongan passport through Masons ancestry which would make him exempt from the quota, but he now appears highly unlikely to play for the club again.Hull KRRugby leagueAndy Wilson guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Terry can captain England against Spain and Sweden Chelsea player denies making racist remark in QPR gameJohn Terry will remain Englands captain for Novembers friendlies against Spain and Sweden even if the investigation into his alleged racist remark made during Chelseas game against QPR has not concluded.The Football Association are understood to have no plans to suspend Terry as captain pending the outcome of their inquiry - though there is no guarantee that he will lead his country in either game at Wembley as the manager Fabio Capello plans to play several fringe players.Responding to the FA launching an inquiry into the allegations that he racially abused Anton Ferdinand, which are also being assessed by the Metropolitan Police, Terry issued a categorical denial and vowed to clear his name.Being found guilty after either the FA or the police investigation could have a ruinous effect on Terrys future in the game. The 30-year-old has endured a difficult time over the last 12 months, with allegations that he slept with the ex-girlfriend of his former team-mate Wayne Bridge costing him the England captaincy.Terry regained the captaincy in March, but Capello could be forced to remove it again, and even stop picking Terry altogether, if the defender is found guilty of racially abusing a fellow player.He and Ferdinand are both likely to be questioned by the FA during their inquiry, while a key witness could be Terrys Chelsea and England team-mate Ashley Cole.The video footage which sparked the controversy shows Cole walking past Terry as he utters the words, which some have interpreted as a racist slur.Terry has admitted using the language but claimed he was actually responding to an accusation of racist abuse from Ferdinand and was simply denying using those words towards him. The pair spoke after the game to clear the air and Terry assumed that was the end of the matter.However, it is understood that Ferdinand has told QPR he was entirely unaware of any racism allegations until after Sundays match had finished. It is this uncertainty that has prompted Rangers to ask the FA to get to the bottom of the matter.The FA are also investigating allegations made by the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra of racial abuse by Suarez, which the Liverpool forward strenuously denies.John TerryEnglandChelseaQPRThe FA guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

FA may drop investigation unless further evidence is found Liverpool may ask FA to act in face of malicious allegationLuis Suarez increasingly looks like he will not face any charges from the Football Association unless Patrice Evra can produce witness statements to support his allegation that he was racially abused during Manchester Uniteds 1-1 draw at Liverpool last weekend.The FA is planning to send a delegate to Manchester to interview Evra, possibly on Thursday, now that he is back in the country following the Champions League tie against Otelul Galati.However, the case may rest on whether any of Evras team-mates can corroborate his accusation that Suarez repeatedly racially abused him. The Uruguayan has vehemently denied the allegation, with the support of his club, and the FA needs to determine whether it is simply one mans word against anothers. If that is the case, there may be nowhere further for the investigation to go.The FA can also study television pictures but it would be highly unusual if it were to bring in lip-readers, and the inquiry will instead focus initially on what precisely the Senegal-born Frenchman claims was said, and whether his allegations can be backed up.Evra had claimed on French TV that it happened "at least 10 times", but his case is undermined by the fact he did not bring the allegation to the attention of the referee, Andre Marriner, during the match.The first Marriner knew of it was afterwards when Evra, accompanied by Sir Alex Ferguson, went to the referees room to ask him to include it in his match report. Marriner then told the Liverpool manager, Kenny Dalglish, who spoke to Suarez and established that the Uruguayan denied the allegation.Liverpools belief is that if the case cannot be proved the FA should consider taking action against Evra on the grounds that it was a malicious allegation. This is unlikely to happen, however, unless there is categorical evidence that Suarez did not do what Evra claims.A more likely outcome is that the case will be dropped if there are no other United players to support Evras story. If that is the case, the FA may not even interview Suarez, having already been made aware from the Liverpool end that the allegation is denied. The FA is particularly sensitive to the rivalry between the clubs and eager not to be seen to be making any rash judgments.However, anti-racism campaign groups such as Kick It Out believe Evra should have approached the referee during the game. Kick It Out launched its three-week One Game, One Community action programme last weekend, and the row between Evra and Suarez came on the same day that both players wore T-shirts to promote the campaign.LiverpoolManchester UnitedDaniel Taylor guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Rio Ferdinands form likely to rule him out of friendlies John Terry set to lead England against Spain and SwedenFabio Capello is unlikely to select Rio Ferdinand for Englands friendlies against Spain and Sweden next month, sparing John Terry the awkward situation of linking up with his senior international team-mate while the Football Association is investigating whether he racially abused the Manchester United defenders younger brother, Anton.The FA received a complaint from Queens Park Rangers on Monday and has since launched an inquiry into the events that occurred towards the end of Sundays west London derby at Loftus Road. Terry, who denies racially abusing Anton Ferdinand, will be among those players interviewed by the governing bodys disciplinary commission, along with his Chelsea and England team-mate Ashley Cole and Anton Ferdinand himself.There remains the possibility that the investigation will have been concluded by the time Capello names his squad, on 6 November, for the international fixtures at Wembley. But, even if it is in progress at that point, Terry will be selected to captain the side, "fitness permitting", as normal with the vice-captain, Ferdinand, not expected to be involved.Capello has yet to be convinced by the 32-year-olds form and fitness this season and is anxious instead to consider the merits of younger players, principally the United defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, and Bolton Wanderers Gary Cahill, against such high calibre opposition as the Spanish.Jones, 19, made his debut in this months qualifier against Montenegro, but was asked to play at right-back though the management team are keen to consider him in his natural central position. Indeed, there is a feeling within the England set-up that they know what attributes Ferdinand Sr brings to the side and they are keener to see him return to something more approaching his best at club level before restoring him to the international fold.Terry has welcomed confirmation that the FA is investigating the allegations as "an opportunity to clear my name". He will tell the disciplinary commissioners that he was responding to what he assumed was an accusation of racist abuse from Anton Ferdinand and was simply denying using the offensive words in the first place.John TerryRio FerdinandEnglandDominic Fifield guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Terry denies racially abusing QPRs Anton Ferdinand QPR and Chelsea players also questioned by policeHammersmith and Fulham police have interviewed John Terry under caution as part of their investigation into allegations that he racially abused Anton Ferdinand during Chelseas defeat by Queens Park Rangers last month.A statement was taken from Terry in Surrey last Friday, 24 hours before Chelseas home game against Wolves, as the police continue to compile accounts of the incident which took place late in the derby at Loftus Road on 23 October. It remains to be seen whether charges are brought against the 30-year-old England captain, who is also the subject of inquiries by the Football Association into the flashpoint.Terry denies racially abusing the QPR defender but has already admitted using offensive words, claiming he had shouted them as a denial having been under the assumption that Ferdinand had accused him of making a racist remark. He welcomed the announcement of the FAs inquiry as an opportunity to clear his name, only for the Metropolitan police to follow suit as a result of an emailed complaint from a member of the public.As part of the inquiry, players at Chelsea and QPR have been interviewed, with confirmation now that Terry has also been contacted. "A 30-year-old man was interviewed under caution on Friday 25 November," said a Scotland Yard spokesman. "He was not arrested." The Crown Prosecution Service is understood to have received files on the investigation from the police, but more are expected to be lodged before any decision is made as to whether charges are to be pressed.Terry is suspended for the Carling Cup quarter-final against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, with Chelsea considering whether they will recall their Spain international Fernando Torres to the starting lineup. The assistant manager, Roberto Di Matteo, said the hierarchy retain faith in the 50m forward, who has started the last four games on the bench. "We can see the player has talent, the way he trains every day, the effort he puts in," said Di Matteo. "Thats how you assess him. I have no doubt he will score goals for us. Hes done it this season: he started very well. Its normal that, during a long season, youll have a week or two when youre not at your best. But I have faith in him."The Italian is to consider his own position at the club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season after admitting he retains ambitions to be a top-flight manager in his own right having briefly tasted life in the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion last term. Di Matteo stressed he is enjoying life working as a key member of Andre Villas-Boass technical staff despite the clubs difficult start to the season, having apparently struck up a close professional relationship and friendship with the Portuguese.Yet the 41-year-old, who was sacked by the Baggies in February despite having led them back into the Premier League the previous season, intends to return to management himself at some stage having attracted tentative interest from prospective employers already this season. "There has been some contact [from other clubs]," said Di Matteo. "People asking about my availability, but Ive kind of declined because Im very happy here. Its a great club and Im very happy with what Im doing. I was flattered, obviously."Thats not tempting right now. Now Im here and focused on winning something with Chelsea, doing my best for Andre. What happens in the future, I dont know. One day youre here, the next day you dont know. But I still have ambitions. Absolutely. Were all ambitious here. Andre is. The players are determined and ambitious. Theyve tasted the feeling of winning trophies, and theyre hungry for more of that.John TerryChelseaQPRThe FADominic Fifield guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Adeyemi was in tears after alleged racist comments Furman: I hope the authorities take heavy action The alleged abuse suffered by Oldham defender Tom Adeyemi in Friday nights 5-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Liverpool at Anfield was an "absolute disgrace", according to his captain Dean Furman.Towards the end of the game the 20-year-old, on loan from Norwich, appeared to take offence to something shouted from the Kop. Despite reassurance from his team-mates, plus Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard and forward Dirk Kuyt, the right-back was visibly upset and tearful.The matter was reported to match officials and subsequently the police, who have confirmed they have launched an investigation into the matter.Liverpool, who have only just finished dealing with the fall-out from Luis Suarezs eight-match ban for racially abusing Manchester Uniteds Patrice Evra, are also looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Furman declined to comment on whether the insult was of a racial nature."He was abused and Ill leave it to Tom and the police to investigate that," Furman told BBC Radio Manchester. "What happened should not happen in the game. It has been highlighted over the last few months and it is an absolute disgrace."When pressed as to whether the abuse was of a racial nature, Furman added: "It is difficult for me to say anything."When one of your boys is down like that we all feel it. Tom, the authorities and police will sort out the situation. I hope the authorities take heavy action because it was a disgrace. A lot of credit goes to Tom for the way he handled the situation."Liverpool said they were working with police in an attempt to ascertain what happened. "An incident occurred in the second half of the match which is now being investigated by both the club and the police," read a club statement. "We will continue to work with the police to establish the details of what actually happened and will make a further statement in due course."Merseyside police said it had begun an investigation but confirmed, contrary to reports, there had been no arrests in relation to the incident. "Merseyside police can confirm that no one has been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated behaviour during the FA Cup fixture at Anfield," said a police spokesman. "However, the Force and Liverpool Football Club are investigating following an incident that occurred during the second half of the game. The aim of the investigation is to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident to ascertain if action needs to be taken."It is understood police spoke to Adeyemi after the match last night and they will continue their investigations today.Talks between Oldham and Liverpool took place after the game and it is expected officials from the League One club will be in contact with the Merseysiders again later today for further discussion.LiverpoolOldhamFA CupFA Cup 2011-12 guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Alejandro Balbi says forward is very affected by punishment Suarez banned and fined 40,000 for abusing Patrice EvraLuis Suarezs lawyer says the Liverpool forward will appeal against the eight-game ban for racially insulting Manchester Uniteds Patrice Evra.Alejandro Balbi, who is also Suarezs agent, says the Uruguay international is "very affected" by the punishment, but "calm because of the massive support of the club, the coach, his teama€‘mates and his captain".The Football Association ruled on Tuesday that Suarez had used racist language to abuse Evra. He was also fined 40,000.However, appealing could lead to Suarezs ban being increased as well as reduced or cancelled completely by an FA appeal board.Luis SuarezLiverpoolThe FARace issues guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Kyle Bartley and Maurice Edu are targeted Rangers calls abuse disgracefulStrathclyde police are assessing complaints that two Rangers players were racially abused on Twitter. Messages were sent to the defender Kyle Bartley and the midfielder Maurice Edu, prompting both players to express their sadness at the latest racial incident to occur on the social networking site.A number of other players have been subjected to abusive tweets this season, and Bartley, on loan from Arsenal, wrote on his page: "Disappointing that in 2012 things like this are still happening. Hopefully the police will take action. Thank you all for the support."Edu did not make a direct statement, but in response to a tweet from his United States international team-mate Jozy Altidore, he said: "Sad day when thats what people are tweeting."Rangers said in a statement: "These comments are disgraceful. The club will assist with all inquiries."Rangers guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

The Luis Suarez-Patrice Evra case was not a simple one but the FA made a bold statement by banning him for eight gamesRightly or wrongly, there was a feeling before the verdict was announced that if Luis Suarez was found guilty it was an opportunity for the Football Association to send out a powerful message. This was the governing bodys chance to impose the sort of ban and fine that would make players up and down the country, as well as the games key decision-makers, realise how seriously the FA views racism. Now the Uruguayan has been banned for eight matches and fined 40,000, the FA has done just that.The FAs strong stance was welcomed by Kick It Out, its chair, Lord Herman Ouseley, saying: "The FA has shown leadership and intent through what has clearly been a difficult and complex complaint to deal with, and invested time and expertise to ensure this outcome. It has demonstrated that it will not stand for discrimination, something organisations such as Fifa and Uefa should take heed of. Kick It Out will continue to work with clubs and players, at professional and grassroots level, offering education on what is deemed offensive and unacceptable behaviour."English football has worked hard to eradicate racism and great strides have been made since the bleak days of the 1980s, when the former Liverpool winger John Barnes recalls "there wasnt a game when you didnt get racial abuse as a black player". Yet the two controversial cases that arose within eight days of each other in October, involving Patrice Evra and Suarez and Anton Ferdinand and John Terry, left the FA with two high-profile investigations on its hands and prompted wider discussions about the prevalence of racism in the domestic game.Not everyone came out of the debate that followed with their reputation enhanced. Sepp Blatter dug himself into a hole that ought to have cost him his job as Fifa president, while Gus Poyet did himself no favours when he suggested players should turn a deaf ear to whatever is said to them on the pitch. "I played football for seven years in Spain and was called everything because I was from South America, and I never went out crying like a baby, like Patrice Evra, saying that someone had said something to me," the Brighton & Hove Albion manager said.Those complaining at the length of time the investigations have dragged on were ignoring the complexities of cases that were never going to be resolved in a matter of days or, as Blatter would like, with a handshake at the final whistle. Only this week the Crown Prosecution Service revealed that further evidence had been received in relation to the allegation that Terry racially abused Ferdinand during Chelseas 1-0 defeat against Queens Park Rangers in October.Evra-Suarez has been anything but straightforward, in part because of the fact that it has been one mans word against another but also due to the cultural differences and linguistic nuances that have muddied the waters when it comes to deciding whether the word "negro", which is regarded as extremely offensive in England, has the same meaning in South America. Suarezs defence was understood to have pointed to the nuances of the Spanish language, as well as cultural differences.More significant was whether Suarez, after four years living in northern Europe, should have an understanding of what is and is not acceptable. What is clear is that the controversial incidents that surfaced in October, at Anfield and Loftus Road, presented the FA with a headache that it could have done without. Racism allegations are always going to be a sensitive issue but the involvement of two of the most powerful clubs in the country, Liverpool and Manchester United, and the England captain, Terry, has placed the governing body under the microscope."Hopefully an 8 game ban & 40k fine will deter players from racially abusing an opponent from now on!" tweeted the former Crystal Palace striker Mark Bright. "About time strong action was taken!"The FA has had racism allegations to deal with in the past but the protagonists have been nothing like as high profile. There was certainly nothing like the same level of media scrutiny when, for example, Readings John Mackie was banned for eight games, five of which were suspended, after he admitted racially abusing the Sheffield United striker Carl Asaba in a match in 2002. Mackie apologised and donated two weeks wages to the Kick Racism Out of Football campaign.Luis SuarezLiverpoolManchester UnitedThe FARace issuesStuart James guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Police investigating racist tweets sent to former Liverpool striker during Talksport radio showPolice are investigating reports that the football player turned radio presenter Stan Collymore has been the victim of racist abuse on Twitter.Collymore reported two racist tweets to the Northumbria force on Friday night.Talksport confirmed that a Twitter user sent one racist messages which read: "StanCollymore has anyone ever called you Stan Cooneymore #greatracistabuse."The second read: "StanCollymore has anyone ever referred to you as semi pro as in a semi pro coon #neitherwhitenorblack."Northumbria police said: "Just after midnight, police received a complaint of racist comments made on Twitter. Officers are carrying out enquiries."The Twitter users account has been removed from the site and the tweets prompted an outpouring of support for Collymore from other users of the microblogging site who condemned the racist abuse.Jamie Durent, of Ingleby Barwick, Stockton-on-Tees, tweeted: "Kudos to stan collymore. Racism has no place in any walk of life. Baffling how people think they can get away it."Chris Trott, based in Hong Kong, tweeted: "that guy is bang out of line great effort from Collymore nobody needs that."Collymores complaint comes as police trawl through CCTV after Oldham footballer Tom Adeyemi was allegedly racially abused by fans during the FA Cup third round tie with Liverpool on Friday night.Officers are likely to be taking witness statements as well as interviewing the defender, who was visibly upset after the incident involving a section of the Kop stand at Liverpools Anfield stadium.Despite reassurance from his team-mates, as well as Liverpool players Dirk Kuyt and Steven Gerrard, the right-back, 20, who is on loan from Norwich, seemed close to tears. There then appeared to be discussion between the fourth official and a police officer by the tunnel while the match was continuing.The police said: "Merseyside police can confirm that no one has been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated behaviour during tonights FA Cup fixture at Anfield."However, the force and Liverpool Football Club are investigating following an incident that occurred during the second half of the game."Liverpool, who won the match 5-1, said they are also investigating the incident."An incident occurred in the second half of the match which is now being investigated by both the club and the police," said a statement issued by the club.Last night, Oldham manager Paul Dickov, said: "From my point of view I have not spoken to Tom about it but I know the kid and something has been said."He is fine now. He has calmed down. He is a laid-back kid who just gets on with business."Last month, Collymore used his Twitter account to emphasise that racism remains a big issue in football.He spoke out after Manchester United player Patrice Evra became the subject of racist abuse on Twitter in the wake of Luis Suarez, the Liverpool player, receiving an eight-match ban for insulting language that included a reference to Evras skin colour.Race issuesTwitterInternetBloggingSocial mediaSocial networkingLiverpoolTalkSportRadio industryDamien Pearse guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Four clubs to remind squads of their responsibilities Police numbers boosted for west London derbyThe Football Association has spoken with Queens Park Rangers, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool and requested they remind players and staff of their responsibilities ahead of Saturdays potentially explosive FA Cup collisions between the teams.The ties at Loftus Road and Anfield will be overshadowed by the incidents that marred the league meetings between the teams in October. Luis Suarez will miss Saturdays fixture as the penultimate match of an eight-game ban, having been found guilty of racially abusing Uniteds Patrice Evra in the 1-1 draw on 15 October, and John Terry is due to attend west London magistrates court next Wednesday charged with a racially aggravated public order offence that allegedly occurred during an altercation with QPRs Anton Ferdinand on 23 October. The Chelsea captain denies the charge.Tensions have been heightened by these incidents ahead of fixtures that have traditionally been fractious. Although the games governing body was already aware of the measures being taken involving the planning and preparation for the two matches, the FA has now issued joint requests, in partnership with the Metropolitan police and Merseyside police, for the clubs to remind their players and staff before kick-off of the particular sensitivities surrounding the games in an effort to avoid any behaviour that could be deemed to be inflammatory.FA officials have been present at strategy and planning meetings held by the clubs and have spoken at length to the police forces involved. They have drawn huge encouragement from the very clear levels of co-operation between Liverpool and United around the planning of their fixture, and by the joint statement issued by the QPR chairman, Tony Fernandes, and his counterpart at Chelsea, Bruce Buck, this week calling for calm in their west London derby. The chairmen asked for the game to be remembered merely as a "celebration of football", with the FA impressed by the proactive measures taken by all parties in a bid to defuse ill-feeling between sets of fans.There will be FA crowd control advisers at both games, with QPR having chosen to remind their supporters on Thursday of the need for good behaviour via their official website. "Racial, homophobic or discriminatory abuse, chanting or harassment is strictly forbidden and will result in arrest and/or ejection from the ground," read their statement."In addition, the club will impose a ban for one or more matches. QPR will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment, or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal and where required we will work in full co-operation with the Metropolitan police to provide CCTV footage and staff statements to ensure prosecution."Queens Park Rangers Football Club is committed to confronting and eliminating discrimination, whether by reason of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ethnic and national origin, disability, nationality, religion or belief or gender reassignment. The club is proud of the atmosphere we have at Loftus Road and by working together we can stop any discrimination or behaviour that has no place in football. Loftus Road is governed by ground regulations and we would like to remind all visitors that by entering the ground they are agreeing to abide by these rules."The derby at Loftus Road - which will be officiated by the experienced Mike Dean - has yet to sell out, with tickets available in most of the home sections, though there will be an increased police presence for a game that has been brought forward to a midday kick-off time on the Mets advice.It remains to be seen whether Ferdinand and Terry are selected for the fixture but the QPR defender, if he is picked, is thought to be reluctant to shake hands with his opponent during the pre-match formalities between the teams.Andre Villas-Boas, the Chelsea manager, has consistently said he would have no qualms about selecting his captain for the game despite the furore that erupted after their last visit to Loftus Road.Didier Drogba and Jose Bosingwa were sent off in that fixture as the hosts prevailed 1-0.The FAQPRChelseaLiverpoolManchester UnitedFA Cup 2011-12FA CupDominic Fifield guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Argyle informed of remarks coming from crowd Club conducting investigation into complaintsPlymouth Argyle have launched an investigation into allegations that a Southend player was abused by a spectator during the League Two match between the two sides on Saturday.The match ended in a 2-2 draw but Plymouth have confirmed that after the game the club were informed of allegedly racist remarks coming from a member of the crowd.A Plymouth statement read: "We have received a number of complaints relating to crowd behaviour during Saturdays game. We are currently conducting a thorough investigation into these complaints."A statement from the supporters group Plymouth Argyle Fans Trust read: "On Saturday an incident involving abuse coming from a supporter towards the Barn Park end of the Lyndhurst stand was reported to the police by a Trust member."Our message to any so-called fans who cannot put aside their own bigotry for 90 minutes is simple: you are not welcome at Home Park."Plymouth ArgyleSouthendRace issues guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Basketball federation calls for protest after player abused Abiola Wabara was subjected to racist tauntsItalian basketball players and fans have been urged to paint their faces black during the next round of fixtures to show support to a player who was racially abused.The idea was prompted by the case of Abiola Wabara, 30, who was abused and spat at while playing for Bracco Geas SS Giovanni in the A1 womens league quarter-final win over Comense.At the time officials took no action, but a subsequent investigation by the federation, Federbasket, resulted in the call for a day of protest across all Italys basketball leagues.Among the campaigns slogans, which all begin "I would like black skin", are: "I would like black skin so I can be like her and shout to the world our desire for freedom;" and: "I would like black skin, or red, green, yellow. I would like to have the skin of all colours of the soul."In 2001 the entire Treviso football team painted their faces black during a home match against Genoa after their Nigerian striker Akeem Omolade was abused, prompting a group of supporters to walk out in protest.Race issuesItaly guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Rugby league star ran 36,500 counterfeit scam from home Raynor had scored for Crusaders on injury return on SundayThe former Great Britain winger Gareth Raynor has been jailed for 15 months for his part in a counterfeiting scam.Raynor, who scored a try on his comeback from injury for Crusaders in their 54-10 Super League defeat at Hull KR on Sunday, pleaded guilty last month to 13 counts of counterfeiting and one count of fraud at Hull Crown Court.His internet ink cartridge scam, run from his Brough home, was worth more than 36,500, the court heard.Raynor returned to court and was sentenced to nine months in jail, plus six months for breaching a suspended sentence received in July 2008 for a racially-aggravated assault.Raynor, who won six caps for Great Britain and scored the winning try in their 2006 Tri-Nations victory over Australia in Sydney, signed a short-term contract with the Wrexham-based Crusaders after being released by Hull at the end of last season.Rugby league guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2010 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Rio Ferdinand booed during 3-3 draw at Chelsea Taylor backs FA stripping Terry of England captaincyThe players union chief executive, Gordon Taylor, fears the recent crowd abuse suffered by Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand could deter footballers from complaining about racial discrimination.The Manchester United defender Evra was taunted by Liverpool fans last week after an independent inquiry ruled he had previously been racially abused by the Anfield clubs Luis Suarez, while his team-mate Rio Ferdinand was also a target for some sections of the Chelsea home support on Sunday.Ferdinand is the brother of the QPR defender Anton Ferdinand, who it is alleged was racially abused by Chelsea captain John Terry last October. Terry, who denies the charge, is due to stand trial over the matter in July.Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Footballers Association, said: "The big thing is with the likes of Patrice Evra - he has become a victim because he has made a complaint."The last thing we want is black players to feel there is no point making a complaint because they will then suffer a backlash. It is like that with a lot of other issues on equality, like homophobia."There is a fear that anyone who comes out and makes a complaint will receive this backlash and it puts off anyone else. People have got to be strong and believe what they are doing is right and stand up against racism."Taylor is saddened that after many years of strong campaigning to eradicate racism from the British game, the matter has resurfaced this season.However, he believes there is one crucial difference from the 1970s and 1980s. Taylor said: "There is an element of abuse now coming into crowds and it is not always easy to control that. There has been a backward step of late."But people are saying it is a return to the bad old days and I dont believe that. In the bad old days there would not have been the level of discussion that there is now."There are some excellent campaigns and I dont want people to think all the progress we have made in the last two decades has been wiped out. I dont want any black players to feel that has all been for nothing."The very fact it is so high up the agenda and taken as seriously now is a situation that just wasnt the case many years ago. This has just reinforced the message that we have got to keep working at the campaigns. It is an education process. It is something we believe in at the PFA and will continue to press onwards with. It is bigger than any player or club or the game itself."The game at Stamford Bridge came after the Chelsea skipper Terry was stripped of the England captaincy by the Football Association because of his pending trial.The FA felt the matter could overshadow the build-up to Euro 2012 but stressed they were not prejudging the outcome of the trial.Taylor believes the FA took the correct decision and feels comments from manager Fabio Capello, saying he disagrees, are unhelpful.He said: "If the captain, who has to do main press conferences, was forever going to be put under questioning as to whether he should be captain with that charge against him, that would take away the issue from football."This was an elephant in the room that wasnt going to go away and I felt the FA tried to negotiate through that moral maze by deciding to say he wouldnt be captain."In order to take the pressure off that particular issue and concentrate on football, from that point of view, we respected that decision. It is just unfortunate the manager doesnt seem to be on board and understand the reasons why that was done."Rio FerdinandJohn TerryRace issues guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Disciplinary case into claims against Suarez is under way Case set to last two days, with both players giving evidenceLuis Suarezs disciplinary hearing for allegedly racially abusing Patrice Evra has begun in secrecy, the Guardian can reveal.The case is expected to last two days, with Suarez and Evra both giving evidence to determine the chain of events that has led to the Liverpool striker facing a long ban if he is found guilty.Evra claims that Suarez used a racist word "at least ten times" during Manchester Uniteds 1-1 draw at Anfield on 15 October. Suarez denies the allegations and has been given Liverpools full backing as he tries to overturn a case that threatens to have huge ramifications for the clubs season.The hearing centres on a disputed version of what was said between the two players. Suarez has admitted words were exchanged but the Uruguayans defence is understood to focus on the nuances of the Spanish language and cultural differences, arguing that what he said would not be considered offensive for someone of his background in South America.The complexities of the case have led the FA to look closely at the semantics issue and explain why the case is expected to take longer than usual.Luis SuarezLiverpoolManchester UnitedDaniel Taylor guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Company apologises after AFC Bournemouth players were told by branch manager its because of the way you lookA group of black professional footballers dining at a branch of Pizza Hut in Bournemouth were asked to pay before eating and were told it was "because of the way you look".Five players from League One side Bournemouth were told they would have to pay, despite a Pizza Hut employee admitting to them it was not company policy. The incident prompted the clubs chairman, Eddie Mitchell, to say today that "it is upsetting to hear that people are treated differently because of the colour of their skin".Pizza Hut today apologised, but said the incident was not "racially motivated". The restaurant called the police after the men refused to leave."We ordered our food. The manager came up with the bill and said: Would you mind paying first? We asked if that was the policy and he said no," midfielder Anton Robinson, 24, told the Bournemouth Echo."When we asked why he had asked us, he said: Its the way you look.""We had a good idea what he was trying to get at. A group of white kids came in straight after us and they werent asked to pay before they had their food. The only thing that was different was the colour of our skins."Robinson said the group of players, including fellow first-team regulars Marvin Bartley and Liam Feeney, told the Pizza Hut employee they were professional footballers, and were happy to pay when they were finished."Thats what normal people do," Robinson said. "He hadnt asked other customers to pay before their meals. It got a little bit heated, then he said: If youre not going to pay the bill now, Im going to call the police to escort you off the premises."Robinson said all players were smartly dressed, telling the Echo: "When the lads go out for a meal, we know were representing the club. We know that people recognise us and we have to behave."Dorset police were duly called to the restaurant during the incident last Thursday, a spokesman confirmed today, after receiving a call from Pizza Hut regarding disruptive customers."A group of men had been asked to leave. They werent happy about this, but we spoke to them and they did leave," the spokesman said.Mitchell, Bournemouths chairman, said the club was "highly disappointed to hear about the treatment a number of players received on a recent visit to Pizza Hut.""Our players are magnificent ambassadors for AFC Bournemouth. Their behaviour is exemplary and they are a credit to the club ," he added in a statement posted on the clubs website."In this day and age, it is upsetting to hear that people are treated differently because of the colour of their skin, and at AFC Bournemouth we will not condone any treatment of people in such a way."Tobias Ellwood, Conservative MP for Bournemouth West, said the town has an "enviable reputation for its tolerance and openness", adding that this sort of incident was "very rare indeed"."I am glad Pizza Hut has issued a full apology, not least for the appalling choice of words used by the manager," he said."AFC Bournemouth stands out as an organisation that excels in binding our local community together. Pizza Hut might learn to follow suit by spending more time with both players and club alike."A spokeswoman for Pizza Hut said: "This incident was not racially motivated. We have recently had a spate of customers leaving without paying their bills, so were advised by the police to ask people to pay for their meal before dining. We have been doing this at our discretion, and in this case the situation was poorly handled. We have spoken to the team member involved and have contacted the customers concerned to apologise for any offence caused."Race issuesBournemouthBritish identity and societyFood & drink industryAdam Gabbatt guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2010 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

England armband vacant after John Terrys demotion Ferdinand says I dont want to be England captainRio Ferdinand has ruled himself out of the running to be named as John Terrys replacement as England captain. As the vice-captain Ferdinand would have been considered favourite to assume the role, as he did when Terry was stripped of the captaincy two years ago, but the Manchester United defender does not want the armband again.Terry was stripped of the captaincy today until after his court case on 9 July, when he will answer charges of racially abusing Ferdinands brother Anton, who plays for QPR. Terry denies the charge.Ferdinand was not informed by Capello that he was losing the captaincy before the armband was officially restored to Terry last March. The Italian later issued an apology of sorts for his handling of that situation, admitting that "maybe I made a mistake".Rio Ferdinand said on Twitter: "I dont want to be England captain after the last episode, just want to concentrate on playin for utd&if I make the squad then as ever Ill be delighted."Steven Gerrard, who was Ferdinands deputy during the United players captaincy and has been third-choice for the post since, now appears to be next in line for the role.EnglandRio FerdinandFabio Capello guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

We totally support Luis and want the world to know that Players dont recognise way Uruguayan has been portrayedLiverpools players say they are "shocked and angered" that their teama€‘mate Luis Suarez has been banned for eight matches for racially abusing the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.A Football Association panel on Tuesday accepted Evras allegation that Suarez had directed a racial insult at him during Uniteds Premier League match at Liverpool on 15 October.But Liverpools players said in a joint statement that "we totally support Luis and we want the world to know that".The statement said: "Luis Suarez is our teama€‘mate and our friend and as a group of players we are shocked and angered that he has been found guilty by the FA. We totally support Luis and we want the world to know that. We know he is not racist."We are a squad of many different nationalities and backgrounds. All of us support the clubs commitment to fighting racism. All of us accept there is no place in the game for any form of discrimination. As a group of players we totally support the Kick It Out campaign."We have lived, trained and played with Luis for almost 12 months and we dont recognise the way he has been portrayed. We will continue to support Luis through this difficult period, and as a popular and respected friend of all his team-mates, he will not walk alone."Luis SuarezLiverpoolRace issues guardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Ellington says he was subjected to monkey chants at New Den Striker claims abuse was worst he has suffered during careerThe Preston North End striker Nathan Ellington has claimed he was subjected to the worst racial abuse he has witnessed during his career at Millwall on Saturday. The former Wigan Athletic forward, on loan from Watford, said he was the target of "monkey noises" and accused of being "a thief" as he warmed up before coming on as a substitute in the 4-0 Championship defeat at the New Den."Ive never seen a more racist and abusive crowd as I saw today at Millwall! Disgrace to the human race," Ellington wrote on Twitter. "There was major abuse while warming up non-stop, there were kids in the crowd as well but they dont care."I didnt bite or report it, its just sad really that there are still people with so much anger at a football match. Ive played in most grounds in the country but never had constant stick with genuine hate in faces. All players warming up got different abuse. A section were abusing us with hateful and racist words."A spokesman for Preston said the club would speak to Ellington before deciding whether to pursue the matter. Millwall said: "Its regrettable we found out after the event. Had he brought it to our attention on the day we would have used all the facilities at our disposal to investigate."Preston North EndMillwallChampionshipRace issuesKaty Murrells guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2011 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

Luis Suarez likely to play at Old Trafford after ban Only 2,100 away tickets after detailed risk assessmentLiverpools ticket allocation for the Premier League trip to Manchester United on 11 February has been slashed by almost a third. Luis Suarez, banned for eight matches after being found guilty of racially abusing the United defender Patrice Evra, is likely to make his first appearance away from Anfield at Old Trafford since his suspension.Liverpools Uruguay striker is certain to receive a hostile reception but there will be 1,000 fewer Reds fans - only 2,100 - inside Old Trafford to see it."The safety of all fans is paramount and a detailed risk assessment of the match carried out by Manchester United and agreed by their Safety Advisory Group which includes Greater Manchester police and Trafford council has resulted in Liverpool receiving a reduced allocation for this specific game," said a statement on Liverpools website. "This was considered necessary to allow for additional stewarding and segregation plans."In October Uniteds allocation for the reverse fixture was reduced from 3,015 to 1,965 after safety chiefs, in conjunction with Liverpool city council, ruled the move necessary after previous problems with visiting fans standing in aisles and gangways.LiverpoolManchester UnitedLuis Suarez guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]

I will gladly go to jail for a month, midfielder says on Twitter Attorney Generals office has examined tweets from BartonJoey Barton has invited the authorities to "make him a martyr" after the Attorney Generals office said it was looking into his tweets over the impending John Terry trial."I will gladly go to jail for a month, in the name of free speech. I have no problem with what I said. Make me a martyr ..." the Queens Park Rangers captain tweeted on Sunday.The Attorney Generals office said it had been made aware of a series of robust observations made by Barton on the stripping of the England captaincy from the Chelsea defender following an allegation of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand during a match at QPR last year. Terry, who denies the charge, will stand trial in July, just a matter of days after Euro 2012 finishes.Barton, who was playing in the match at Loftus Road in October, has defended his comments on the grounds of free speech. However a spokesman for the Attorney Generals office said: "I can confirm the Tweets have been brought to our attention and have been viewed."Dominic Grieve QC is the current Attorney General. He is the governments senior law officer and part of his remit is to make sure people facing criminal allegations receive a fair trial.Joey BartonTwitter guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More [detalii...]