Bad old days of racism are back
Wright speaks out as police probe Sterling’s fan abuse allegations
FORMER footballer Ian Wright warned “the bad old days are back” after Raheem Sterling claimed he suffered racist abuse during Manchester City’s match against Chelsea on Saturday.
The sports pundit was one of many stars and politicians who rallied to support the 24-year-old as police began a probe into the allegations.
Sterling appeared to laugh off the incident in the first half of his team’s 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge when Chelsea fans could be seen leaning over advertising hoardings and shouting at him as he collected the ball nearby.
But in an Instagram post yesterday, he accused English media of helping to “fuel racism” and “aggressive behaviour”.
The news came after two Hearts fans were arrested on Saturday over alleged racial abuse of Motherwell defender Christian Mbulu at Tynecastle. Hearts owner Ann Budge said: “This behaviour will not be tolerated.
“The individuals involved have already been identified and have received immediate and indefinite bans.
“I’m so very disappointed that instead of being able to enjoy a good victory and staying at the top end of the table, I’m having to comment on the entirely unacceptable behaviour of a minority of supporters.”
Sterling’s name was trending across the UK yesterday as social media users and celebrities tweeted their support.
Former Arsenal and England striker Wright condemned the abuse as he shared a video of the incident on Saturday, adding that Chelsea had been “shamed” by the fans. Chelsea are also investigating and the FA have said they will support the investigation.
Football commentator Guy Mowbray said Sterling “deserves the highest praise” for how he handled the incident and called the people in the video “pathetic”.
Labour MP Bill Esterton also tweeted his backing.
He wrote: “Raheem’s right. We need to kick racism out of football – whether it’s found in the stands or in the media.”