Norwich boss Hughton: Black managers have found it difficult to get jobs because of their colour

Jan 28, 2013 10:55:00 AM

The Canaries' boss says that he would like to see more diversity within the Premier League in coaching roles but feels an NFL-type 'Rooney Rule' would not be appropriate in England

EXCLUSIVE
By Alex Labidou

Norwich City boss Chris Hughton believes there is a lack of diversity within the Premier League when it comes to coaching, stating that black managers feel it is difficult to find jobs because of their colour.

The Canaries' boss is currently the only black manager in charge of a Premier League side and says that there is an issue with the amount of ethnic minorities participating at higher levels in the game.

"I, for one, certainly would like to see more diversity because of the amount of black players that are playing here," Hughton told Goal.com. "I suppose the issue here is that there aren't more blacks or ethnic groups involved in the game here. I would like to see more black coaches and managers in our game.

"I do know of black ex-players who have found it very difficult to [land a coaching job] and felt that their color was the [reason] to not getting a job."

When asked about the 'Rooney Rule', a rule in American football which requires NFL teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation jobs, the former Newcastle boss understood its importance in America, but does not feel that it would be appropriate to implement in England.

"I understand the Rooney Rule and I understand why it is critical in America," he continued. "I certainly think there are differences between the American system and in American football, there is such a large percentage of players who are of ethnic backgrounds. I think there is a difference here... I don't think it's appropriate here.

"What I do feel is appropriate, and there are some really good strides going that way, is that we have to make sure that we're all-inclusive."

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