The pride and the shame

Boris Johnson has condemned the “appalling” racist abuse that three black English footballers have been subjected to because they missed penalties in the recent 2020 Euro Final.

Is this the same politician who previously made racist jokes about “piccaninnies" and “watermelon smiles”?

Gareth Southgate, as England's manager, has assumed responsibility for the choice of penalty takers and supported his players throughout with proper courage and respect.

Perhaps those guilty of online abuse might consider what effect their past comments have had on the psychology of players, especially as confidence is key to penalty taking.

The abusers thus may have helped bring about England's defeat!

Most England supporters are good-humoured and tolerant and support fair play.

It is shameful, however, to recall the xenophobic abuse directed at Danish fans, including a nineyear-old boy, as well as the attempt to interfere with play by the England ‘supporter’ who aimed a laser pointer at the

Danish goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel as he was facing an extra-time penalty in the semi-final clash at Wembley.

On the other hand, one can be proud of the dignity, diversity and team-spirit of the current England squad and management which has been evident on and off the field and most notably in the compassion and togetherness shown in defeat.

A contrast this to the divisiveness exploited by politicians who have been only too ready to jump on the bandwagon of the team's success.

Mike Temple

Via email

"Be proud of the dignity, diversity and team-spirit of the England

squad”