RAHEEM STERLING feels it would be a historic moment for England as a multi-cultural nation if the Three Lions win Euro 2020.
Gareth Southgate’s men are among the favourites for the tournament, much of which they will play on home soil.
Sterling believes that this summer could be a crucial moment in combating racism in the UKCredit: AP:Associated Press
Several of Southgate’s stars are black such as attacking quartet Sterling, Marcus Rashford, Dele Alli and Jadon Sancho.
And Manchester City ace Sterling – who has become a figurehead in football’s battle against racism – believes a home success could be a significant step forward.
Sterling said: “It would be an important milestone. In our country, there are still a lot of people who are a little closed in on themselves.
“I think that such success could push them to open up.
“But, in any case, an English victory for the Euros, whatever the composition of the team, would have a positive impact on the whole country and in all areas.
“I sincerely think that England is a country ready to evolve on these questions. But it will take time for things to change as candidates from minorities must also emerge.
“We will continue to push in this direction.”
The former Liverpool youngster, now 25, took to Instagram after he was racially abused in a game at Chelsea in December 2018.
But, I feel, more generally, that the way people look at me has changed. I previously had the impression of being systematically represented negatively.
Raheem Sterling on his perception in the UK
His words that day struck a chord and Sterling admits he has not heard anything directed at him in any game in England since.
Sterling, close to fitness after a hamstring injury, added: “It is true that since the match at Chelsea, I have not been the victim of racist insults in the Premier League.
“Sometimes I see spectators who are apparently about to yell at me. Not necessarily racist insults but something nasty, let’s say.
“I see the anger in their eyes, but they refrain from saying anything.
“Perhaps because they think that they risk being filmed and that it could backfire on them.
“But, I feel, more generally, that the way people look at me has changed. I previously had the impression of being systematically represented negatively.
“Today, for a year now, we have had a fairer perception of my personality, in a way.”
As a result of that, Sterling has been held up as a spokesman and role model for black players in their fight against racism.
He said: “I believe they respect that I speak frankly about subjects many people dare not discuss much.
“It should not be forgotten that I am above all a football player.
“My daily life is first of all to train, to score goals, to help my team to win trophies.
“When I have the chance, I talk about my commitment to racism, but I remain a player. That’s why I don’t really care what is said about me in the press.”
It has been a different story at foreign grounds though. None more so than during England’s trip to Bulgaria in October.
The game was interrupted twice because of racist chants and gestures from the home fans – but England ran out 6-0 winners.
Sterling said: “It was a tough away game, we won it and, in a way, it was most important.
“Because the best answer to bring to those responsible for these shouts, in my opinion, was to win with such a margin.
We had met before to talk about it. We agreed that in the event of provocation by the public, we would all respect the decision of the referee and officials if they wanted to stop the match. Personally, racist chants do not disturb me during a match. But other players may feel differently.
Raheem Sterling on the stoppages during England’s trip to Bulgaria in October
“It made them suffer more than if we left the field, a possibility that I have never even considered.
“We had met before to talk about it. We agreed that in the event of provocation by the public, we would all respect the decision of the referee and officials if they wanted to stop the match. Personally, racist chants do not disturb me during a match. But other players may feel differently.
“Any kind of decision to leave the pitch must be taken collectively, in the interest of the team.”
Sterling also talked about the lack of black players moving into management – though he is not in favour of any kind of selection quotas to increase the numbers.
He said: “I don’t think it’s a good idea because by imposing such a system, we would force things.
“And when the clubs studied the CVs of the three or four coaches who would benefit from this positive discrimination each year, they would say to themselves: ‘These guys have been privileged’.
“It should be possible to ensure all candidates for positions in football are treated in the same way.
“I think today a black candidate for a coaching position is not offered the same opportunities.
“We are living in a period when image is very important. You cited the case of Patrick Vieira — when he was a player, beyond his on-field qualities, he was considered intelligent, very respected.
Sterling will be a key figure for the Three Lions in the summerCredit: Getty – Contributor
“This explains why he had his chance afterwards.
“But I have the impression many black players are put forward often for their physical qualities, which doesn’t allow them to convey an image which can then help them become a coach.
“This is why players from minorities, despite their goodwill, do not have the opportunity to show off once they have hung up the boots.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
