THE CHAIRMAN OF the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has said that John Terry’s four-game ban undermines the English FA’s efforts to tackle racism in the game.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Clarke Carlisle compared Terry’s punishment with the eight-game ban handed to Liverpool’s Louis Suarez last season for racially abusing the Manchester United defender, Patrice Evra.
“The Suarez ban sent out a strong message that racism isn’t tolerated in the game.
“Diluting that with this four-match ban almost undermines the initial message.”
Terry was found guilty of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand in September of this year and has until 18 October to appeal his suspension.
However, not only would Carlisle have preferred a longer ban for Terry, but he also believes anyone found guilty of a racism offence should have to take part in a rehabilitation programme.
“If part of their integration is actively partaking in anti-discrimination campaigns, not only will they benefit from the information that’s shown in these seminars, but also it shows that they do show some remorse for their actions.”
Speaking specifically of Terry, the PFA Chairman added:
“If he doesn’t contest this decision, and an appeal isn’t forthcoming, it would do John Terry’s image a lot of good if he was seen to be contributing to these sort of campaigns.”
