By Andrew Warshaw, Chief Correspondent
January 8 – Kevin-Prince Boateng, whose anti-racism stance by leading his AC Milan team off the pitch gained worldwide publicity, says he’d have no hesitation in doing it again if he is subject to further abuse.
The German-born Ghanaian, jeered by fans during a winter break friendly at Pro Patria, is adamant he would stop playing again even during a competitive game.
“I don’t care what game it is,” he said in an interview with CNN, revealing that he had approached the referee three times before ultimately kicking the ball into the stands and storming off. “A friendly, Serie A or Champions League match, I would walk off again.
“I’m sad and angry that I’m the one that has to take action. The referee said to me ‘don’t worry’ but I said I do worry. I was angry and I was sad. There were so many negative emotions that came up with me.
“I am surprised we’re still hearing these things in 2013. It’s not the first time in my life that I’ve heard these things, but I’m 25 now and I’ve had enough of this.”
While most of the global reaction to Boateng’s stance was supportive – including, predictably, from Milan President and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi – not everyone was in favour.
Boateng’s former Milan team-mate and Dutch midfield legend Clarence Seedorf had his doubts about the effectiveness of such a move, suggesting it played into the hands of the racists.
“Walking away? Yes, you send a signal,” said Seedorf. “But this has happened more than once and I don’t think it really changes all that much. We are just empowering that little group with their behaviour to make this mess.”
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