In the 80's I was watching Boro v York from the Holgate End of the Clive Road Terrace, and Keith Walwyn a big black centre forward was brought down and awarded a free kick. Right decision. From behind me came the shout" The ref's a N***** Lover"!! Absolutely appalling. And no one, including me took him on, but then I couldn't be sure who it was!! Let's Kick Out Racism started in 1993 - 27 years ago and the issue is as problematic as ever, on so many levels. It hasn't gone away and given we allegedly live in more enlightened times, that is both appalling and unacceptable.
It is not for me to tell any person, how they should deal with all aspects of racism and they should be respected. But when Sports Channels and teams at the highest level are still taking the knee, how can some clubs make that decision on behalf of all of the players, to the detriment of any players, who may still wish to 'take the knee'?
Arsenal v Man Utd; both teams took the knee, as have Southampton v Villa tonight. Gary Neville mentioned there are those that think it's an 'empty gesture', but by keeping it, it retains the pressure and supports all the other measures being undertaken. Of course, not doing it, is a gesture in itself, for all the world to see.
Bill Leslie on the Southampton v Villa game, said the protest was particularly relevant in the light of events earlier this week.
Living in London, keep up with the Boro, oftenthrough subscription and I am saddened, when we are told that the Boro are not taking the knee, because the captain doesn't believe in empty gestures. A player who prays and crosses himself on the pitch, for all the world to see.
Keith Walwyn played 245 games for York City, before playing over 60 games each for Blackpool and Carlisle. Keith was the Guest of Honour at the opening of Blackpool's new £7 million stand and York City named one of its hospitality rooms, the Keith Walwyn Vice Presidents suite. Keith sadly died in 2003, while undergoing heart surgery, aged 47.