Whilst the rest of the world pussy foots around the subject of the Y word, desperately trying to paint Spurs fans as the villains of the piece, Chelsea football club have astonishingly done something quite brave.
They’ve addressed the problem.
Well done.
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From the Official Cheslsea site:
This Saturday we make the short journey across London to face Tottenham Hotspur, in what promises to be a passionate and exciting encounter.
Your support is an inspiration to the players as we seek three important points. However, for a small minority of fans, matches with Spurs have also brought deeply unpleasant and unwanted anti-Semitic behaviour, which has no place in football or anywhere in society.
Tottenham supporters using the ‘Y’ word as a form of identity is not an excuse for abusive chanting.
All forms of discriminatory behaviour and language are abhorrent and this includes the ‘Y’ word.
The Football Association reiterated in its directive announced earlier this month that the use of the ‘Y’ word in football stadiums is unacceptable and could amount to a criminal offence, and leave those fans liable to prosecution and potentially a lengthy Football Banning Order. This is fully supported by Chelsea Football Club. We have continuously worked to eradicate all forms of discrimination, both at home and away, and the diversity within our club is obvious to all. The players on the field, fans watching from the stands and the religious background of our directors and owner all illustrate a multi-cultural club of which we are very proud.
We need your help to bring to our attention anyone taking part in anti- Semitic behaviour or any other kind of abuse.
A dedicated phone line has been set up – 07537 404821 – for supporters to text, allowing fans to anonymously report abusive or offensive behaviour in strict confidence. You can also contact Kick It Out on 0800 1699 414 or by downloading their smartphone app.
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Chelsea fan Delboy Scrunge told HH:
It’s like someone’s put a knife through my heart, if I’m honest. I thought that Asian bloke Baddiel had ironed them Jews out and we was alright for a sing song. World’s gone made. This political erectness is doing my swede in. If you can’t chuck a few coins and make a few funny noises as part of the banter, what’s the point of going?”
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