Hazard slams Blues racists
EDEN HAZARD has attacked Chelsea supporters for their treatment of Raheem Sterling, saying: “They are not fans.”
Police and Chelsea continue to conduct investigations into the incidents after the Manchester City player was the victim of alleged racist abuse by Blues fans at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Four fans have been suspended by the club and one of the main protagonists, 60-year-old Colin Wing, has apologised but denied he racially abused Sterling.
Yet the England star has told police that he was the victim of racial slurs during City’s 2-0 defeat.
Condemnation of the incident has been widespread and last night Chelsea star Hazard, below, said: “They are called fans but they are not fans. “Proper Chelsea fans just sing for Chelsea and enjoy the game. “I’m fully supportive of Raheem and this kind of racism cannot be in the stadium any more. As a player, if I’m in the situation I would say something. “It does happen in football sometimes, not just in England but everywhere and it needs to stop. That’s it.”
Wing, a married father of two, claims he has lost his job and his season ticket at Chelsea but also said: “Everybody has got what they wanted. So why can’t they leave me alone?” Sterling’s
manager Guardiola, at has City, also Pep thrown his support behind the player by calling him “an incredible person”.
Guardiola said it was hard to find reason in the actions of those who rained abuse on his forward on Saturday – Sterling’s 24th birthday.
And on the wider issue of inherent racism in general, Guardiola said Sterling was courageous to ask why this was still happening in the 21st century.
incredible “He’s an person, an incredible human being,” said Guardiola. “Racism’s everywhere – not just in football. People will focus on football but it’s not just in football, unfortunately. That’s why we have to fight every day [against it].”
Television coverage showed the forward assailed by abuse from a section of fans when collecting the ball out of play.
After saying he “had to laugh” because he expected “no better” Sterling posted a statement via Instagram questioning the role of the media in its portrayal of black players, suggesting there was a connection.
Sterling also received support from Leroy Sane.
“It’s sad it happens still but we all support Raheem and are on his side,” said Sane.
“He is a strong guy, a good guy, and he knows how to handle it.
He’s not letting
it get him down. He’s focused on playing good football.”
Guardiola added: “Hopefully the criticism when he plays badly, everyone is exposed to that – but just for the colour of his skin?
“That’s ridiculous and we have to protect from that situation.” In December 2017 Sterling was the victim of a racist attack outside City’s training ground, for which the man responsible was jailed for 16 weeks.
suspensions reacted in Chelsea handing swiftly have out pending the outcome of a police probe. They promised “severe sanctions” if there was evidence of racist abuse.
Sterling will receive a warm reception at the Etihad tonight against Hoffenheim in the Champions League.
Yet with Guardiola unable to call on 15 injured players, Sterling could face a bigger workload.
David Silva, Danilo and Fernandinho have joined Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne in the sick room.