Players Views

Glenn Johnson

England

Why do you think it's a good thing to support campaigns like Show Racism the Red Card?
The world would be a better place without racism. The more people we have against it, the better.

Why is it a good thing to have people from all over the world playing for one football club?
People usually think of racism as a black and white issue but it's also against different culutres so it's nice to see everyone mix.

How has having different nationalities benefited your team?
There's more variety of players and there's some good players in foerign countries, so it makes the premiership stronger.

Can you tell us about any experience of racism you had growing up?
I had a few comments at school like most people do. But the main problem was when we played against Spain. It doesn't affect me at all, I'm not fused, I just ignore it. But it can affect some people.

How did it affect the other players?
It was just getting on everyone's nerves because we didn't expect it from Spain. They're a decent country normally. I think we were more frustrated about the referee. He was pretty bad as well.

What would be your advice to young people suffering racist abuse from a peer?
Not to get in trouble over it because they're just stupid little people. Just stay with your mates and you'll be fine. I'd let somebody know about it, a teacher or parent.Other than that I would try to ignore it and stay with my mates as much as I could.

What would be your advice to the perpetrator giving the abuse?

Just grow up really.

What would you say is the best way to respond to racism?
I've always just ignored it and said, "Do you ever get bored of saying that?" It just shows you're not bothered and if you're not listening then it's not going to bother you.

If you heard or witnessed racism directed at somebody else what would you do?
If it was worth saying something then I would but if it would be better to leave it and not say anything I would. So it depends on the circumstances.

How important is it for us to be tolerant of different faiths and cultures?
It's nice to be with different culutres and see the way different people live. In London you see a lot of different people but deep down they're the same.

What do you think makes someone racist?
Just things they're not used to. If you're at school and you're the only black boy at school, they may think you're a bit wierd.