Sowetan

Pep on Sterling’s side in racial abuse saga

Chelsea suspend four said racists

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London – Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hailed Raheem Sterling as an “incredible person” after the English forward hit out at the media coverage that he said helps fuel racism. Sterling made the comment on Sunday, a day after he faced alleged racist abuse from a supporter during City’s 2-0 Premier League defeat by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. “Raheem said it perfectly. He is an incredible person,” Guardiola told a news conference yesterday.

“In the 21st century, it’s tough to understand today what happened [to] black people. You have to protect how equal we are and help us to be better. “Racism is everywhere, it’s not just in football. We have to fight to make a better future for everyone, not just in England.”

Chelsea have suspended four supporters from attending matches pending and investigat­ion and the police are reviewing the video footage of the incident. “I appreciate what Chelsea did; if it happened in my club we would do the same,” Guardiola added.

The Profession­al Footballer­s’ Associatio­n was critical of media’s portrayal of Sterling, saying that the England internatio­nal was often singled out.

When asked if Sterling faces a harsh treatment from the media, Guardiola said: “I don’t know. When I arrived here I spoke with him because I know he was so active on social media.

“You expect it [negativity] when he’s played bad, but just for the colour of his skin? No.” City have qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League and need a point against Hoffenheim tonight to secure top spot in Group F. Guardiola said he has only 15 fully fit first-team players available for selection after David Silva was ruled out with a muscular strain.

The Spanish midfielder joins striker Sergio Aguero and playmaker Kevin de Bruyne on the sidelines due to injury. – AFP

 ?? / M A RT I N RICKETT/GETTY IMAGES ?? Raheem Sterling and coach Pep Guardiola.
/ M A RT I N RICKETT/GETTY IMAGES Raheem Sterling and coach Pep Guardiola.

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