Europa League: William Gallas calls for ruling bodies to act on racism
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tottenham defender William Gallas believes his team-mates would be within their rights to walk off the pitch, if they find themselves on the end of racial abuse again.
Racist chants were directed at Emmanuel Adebayor during Spurs’ game against Internazionale at San Siro, the second leg of a tie which was won on away goals and earned a quarter-final with Basle.
Jermain Defoe, Aaron Lennon and Andros Townsend experienced racial abuse in the match against Lazio in September, and during the return game in Rome Lazio fans mocked Spurs’ links with the Jewish community. Apparent anti-Semitic attacks on fans in both Rome and Lyon made a depressing trend more alarming.
Gallas believes he would be justified in following the example of Kevin-Prince Boateng, the Milan midfielder who walked off after being targeted during a friendly against Pro Patria earlier this year.
“Some players have left the pitch to show they are disappointed,” said Gallas. “I understand it and that shows we are not happy about this. Fifa and Uefa have to take their decision. They have to understand what we can feel when we are on the pitch.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments