With racism in the game of football notably raising its ugly head once again this year, there have been numerous instances highlights around the country in the domestic game and we saw it at international level when England travelled to Montenegro and Tottenham Hotspur fullback Danny Rose hasn’t been shy of giving his own thoughts on the topic.
With Rose following Raheem Sterling to offer his own commentary on events, when news broke last night that UEFA had ordered Montenegro to play one game behind doors as punishment, and fined them only 20,000 Euros as punishment for the racist abuse, Rose was understandably less than impressed with their weak decision and punishment continuing to be little more than lip service to the complaints.
Speaking to Sky Sports he commented.
“I’ve just found out and I’m lost for words a little and I am not surprised. I don’t think it is a harsh enough punishment for someone to learn from in the future, just a one-game ban and 20,000 euros – it’s a bit shocking but there is not much I can do now. I just have to hope that I never have to play there again, it’s a shame that this where we are now and I just have to get on with it.”
Rose went on to say he appreciated it wasn’t representative of the whole country, we all have that unfortunate pocket of supporters, but it certainly made him reticent to ever return – either personally or in a playing capacity if he could help it.
I doubt many will disagree with him here.