Racism cases don't undermine English football, claims Premier League chief executive

By Andrew Warshaw

January 11 – English Premier League chief executive, Richard Scudamore, claims the recent racism cases have done nothing to undermine the fair play reputation of English football.

The eight-game ban on the Liverpool striker Luis Suárez for racially abusing the Manchester United defender Patrice Evra made headlines across the world while the Chelsea captain, John Terry, has been charged by the police for allegedly racially abusing Anton Ferdinand of Queens Park Rangers, a charge he vehemently denies.

In the latest incident last Friday, 20-year-old Oldham defender Tom Adeyemi broke down in tears during an FA Cup game at Liverpool after receiving abuse from the stands.

But Scudamore nevertheless believes English football is unrivalled when it comes to the fight against racism.

“When it comes to the racism issue there is zero tolerance,” he said.

“We as a sport have led the line and continue to lead the line, there’s no room for it.

“Look at the reaction to it from the media, supporters and public.

“It’s been dealt with.

“I’m proud that we’re in a country that can deal with it.

“The reaction we’ve seen here is far better than what happens in many other countries, where it wouldn’t have even got any column inches.”

A Parliamentary Committee has just been set up to see whether enough is being done to combat racism following the recent cases.

The Committee chairman, John Whittingdale, says the Football Association, the Premier League and the anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out would all be called to give evidence.

“The Government is entitled to do what they think is in the public interest,” Scudamore said.

“If they want to raise it, that’s fine.”

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