Chris Hughton wants authorities to enforce tougher punishments in fight against racism
Hughton praised the approach of the England squad and staff for how they handled the situation in Podgorica , but feels a clear message must be sent from the governing bodies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Brighton boss Chris Hughton has called on the authorities to hand out the sternest possible sanctions to in a bid to clamp down on racist abuse.
A number of England players – including Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi – were subject to racist chanting during England’s 5-1 Euro 2020 qualifying victory over Montenegro on Monday night.
The Football Association described the incidents in Podgorica as “abhorrent”, while governing body Uefa subsequently opened proceedings against Montenegro, including a charge of racist behaviour.
England boss Gareth Southgate has underlined the need for education to try to tackle the issues head on.
Hughton, one of the few BAME coaches in high-profile management jobs, praised the approach of the England squad and staff for how they handled the situation, but feels a clear message must be sent from the governing bodies.
“The abuse that the players got wasn’t a surprise. It has happened before. I think people were talking about the possibility of it even before the game,” Hughton said in The Argus.
“When it happened it wasn’t that big a surprise to me. The surprise you want now is for the correct authorities to clamp down on it properly, not give out easy fines.
“The only way you can really punish the perpetrators for me are by very heavy fines or make them play in empty stadiums.
“It has to be something that is a deterrent and that hasn’t been happening.”
Brighton return to Premier League action on Saturday at home to relegation battlers Southampton.
Hughton revealed midfielder Davy Propper should be involved after being left out of Holland’s 3-2 defeat by Germany as a precaution after muscle stiffness.
Pascal Gross and Florin Andone could still be short of full fitness as they continue recovery from injury lay-offs.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments