Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson urges ‘hard and firm’ action against racism

The Scottish tactician has revealed his shock after a number of alleged racist incidents in the game, admitting he thought the situation had improved over recent years

7 Feb 2012 16:46:00

By Shane Farrington

More On :  Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson
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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has called on authorities to take ‘hard and firm’ action on any forms of racism following a recent spate of incidents in the game.

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Liverpool’s Luis Suarez  was recently found guilty of racially abusing Red Devils defender Patrice Evra, which resulted in the Uruguayan being handed an eight-game ban, while Chelsea’ John Terry is due to face the same charges after an incident with QPR’s Anton Ferdinand in a July trial.

In addition a number fans have been accused of aiming racist abuse towards players, with many facing arrest, and Sir Alex has admitted his shock at these occurrences.

"I don't understand at all where it's coming from,” Sir Alex told CNN.

"This is a moment where we have to take stock and we should do something about it if it's surfacing again, and be really hard and firm on any form or shape of racism.

"There have been a couple of examples recently which is not good. In 2012, you can't believe it. It was obvious maybe 20 years ago and the improvements have been for everyone to see.

"I have had some fantastic black players, absolutely magnificent black players, and with every one of them I have enjoyed my working relationship with them."

The 70-year-old also discussed United’s recent 3-3 draw against Chelsea and revealed he was thinking the worse when his side went 3-0 down.

He added: "It was a funny thing, in the first half we dominated it and then came the own goal and at half-time we were saying 'we are going to win this match as we are the better team'.

"But after losing two goals in a few minutes after half-time at that moment we were thinking damage limitation, get home and start again.

"But in true fashion in terms of the character and history of the football club they never gave in and kept going and deserved a point and that point may be one that does it for us - you never know."

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