Is Sol Campbell a victim of racism or himself?

Sol Campbell... Is it cos 'e is Black?

It's not often I find myself writing for four consecutive days in a row. Not just because there is a limit to my considerable literary prowess, but it's also possible that one can over-egg the cake. However, yesterday morning I saw the interview on TV where Sol Campbell claimed he'd have been England captain for "...10 years had he been white...". Intriguing. 

I mentioned this to a Journalist and broadcaster and during our discussion, he alerted me to the Dispatches program on Channel 4 last night that was addressing the perennial issue of racism, homophobia and anti-semitism at football grounds. It was sad, but alas not surprising to see, that despite the efforts of the authorities, the disease of bigotry is still evident in football. I was also disappointed - but not surprised - by Jason Roberts' revelation that he was racially abused on a regular basis by opposing fans, and worse still, by his own "supporters". What I noticed was that the perpetrators were from the same clubs that have had long histories of hooligan, prejudiced, abusive and disorderly followers. These being among others, Millwall, West Ham and those from across the park, Everton where a few of there own were shown being particularly insulting about Daniel Sturridge. 

Ultimately, it's clear that abuse in football stems from society as a whole. Racism in football per se is a falsehood. Harsh, but true. And as such, it is everybody's responsibility to do something about it. If we think the FA, UEFA or whoever alone can stamp out this unsavoury facet of the beautiful game, then we're very sadly mistaken. Having said that, I do believe the Police can also do more. During the programme yesterday, there were Police officers standing beside fans (I use the term very loosely - perhaps scum would be more appropriate) who were hurling verbal abuse at Brighton, Leicester City and Tottenham supporters at various matches. The reaction of the police, on each occasion... Sweet FA, if you excuse the pun. 

To rid the game of these ills, football must not be seen as a separate issue. Yes have the Kick it Out campaign and other initiatives, but they should be aligned with the wider society. If the culprits were brought to book and exposed, I'm sure we'll find the guilty are from all walks of life. From Accountants to Stockbrokers, to Bricklayers and Plumbers. I disagree that the football ground should be seen as being apart from the street in terms of law enforcement. A football pitch is the public in my opinion and if the club or the FA don't, or can't do anything about a particular event, then the police should. An incident should be treated in the same way as if it were in the street, in a train, shop or wherever. To continue with this distinction, or waiting for one to "launch an investigation" before the other can act is just lame. The fact is the FA and the club can only do so much. The rest of us, supporters, the general public and police must do the rest in partnership and between us all, we can make a difference. 

Going back to Campbell, I really don't agree with him and where he's coming from. Paul Ince was England captain, and for a vital world cup qualifier at that. Albeit due to an injury, I think the fact that he was chosen by Glenn Hoddle confirms the faith in, and high regard in which Hoddle held for, Ince. For Campbell to say he would have been captain for 10 years is almost laughable. He'd have been the only player, if memory serves me right, let alone black player to serve that length of time. It's probably more true to the point that a number of reasons contributed to his not being selected more often as captain. More suitable teammates, PR and most importantly, his own attitude. 

Personally, I think Sol Campbell was a good solid player. Reliable. Commanding. Strong. He has also fought tirelessly against racism in football, and in fairness to him addressed head on the problems facing inner city black youth with crime, unemployment and such and asserted that many of the victims were their own worst enemies. Could it be here that he is being his own worst enemy? I'm a black man. I've been so for longer than Sol Campbell and, as an ordinary bloke, I've not had the same privilege and protection perhaps, as has been afforded to him. However, what I can say is that in order to get on in society, be you Black, White, Asian, Marsian no matter what it's absolutely vital that you have the right Attitude. This is absolutely key. Abundantly clear. The right attitude enables everybody to see each other for who or what they are without putting colour, religion, sexuality or other first and to act and be perceived as an equal. My opinion is that Sol's attitude has gone before him where selection as captain is concerned. It may even be that he's trying to do the very same thing that may have prevented him from becoming captain during his career. Some good solid PR. After all, he does have a biography to promote and what better card to play... Than the Ace of Race!

Sol Campbell has been quoted as saying he may have to leave the country to further his management ambitions. If he does that would be a great shame but all in all, the strongest and fittest survive. Not just physically, but in attitude also. 

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