Gordon Taylor defends PFA members
Gordon Taylor has defended PFA members following claims that no big names would appear in a video to launch a campaign against homophobia.
According to a report in The Independent, players and agents have turned down a request by the PFA to take part in a video to spearhead the drive.
The PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor has responded by saying: “Contrary to newspaper reports, no player has refused to be part of the anti-homophobia DVD because NO player was asked.
“This initiative was instigated by the players’ organisation on behalf of its members and, as such, our support of this campaign is generic.”
Earlier Gordon had said in a statement: “Everybody assumes footballers are full of confidence, but it is not easy on issues like this. Remember there was a time when even black players did not feel they could talk about race.”
Taylor remains committed to breaking the taboo, and told givemefootball yesterday: “The PFA are proud of our work in the field of anti-racism demonstrating that in football we are all united regardless of race, colour or creed.
“The English game is a beacon of diversity with players from many backgrounds, countries and continents demonstrating their skills on the field of play. It is unacceptable for them to be subjected to abusive chanting be it racist or homophobic whilst they play.
“It is vital that we continue to work towards eradicating all forms of discrimination including homophobia. I applaud the ongoing work in this area.”
