Quantcast
Blogs

Why is Chris Hughton such a rarity?

|
Image for Why is Chris Hughton such a rarity?

There is a distinct lack of black managers in English football. In the Premier League right now there is isn’t a single black manager, something which should be an embarrassment for the game’s governing body in this country. One of the most recent black managers in England’s top flight was former Newcastle gaffer Chris Hughton, who now finds himself in charge at Birmingham City. So, why is Hughton such a rarity?

Whether there is an undercurrent of racism is hard to prove, but the fact of the matter is that there should be more black coaches at the top level. While the reasons for the rarity of the likes Chris Hughton are difficult to find out, steps can definitely be taken to ensure that this isn’t the case in the future and that there is a level playing field for all, regardless of skin colour.

The FA is taking these steps right now and has launched “COACH” to inspire coaches from black and minority ethnic communities. This brand new film is backed by all of the game’s governing bodies in England, including the Premier League, and is the first step to ensuring that change is just around the corner. Changes can’t be made overnight, but over time the divide can be bridged.

One man who welcomes the message behind the film is the PFA’s Bobby Barnes, who hopes it has a long term impact for PFA members: “As the players’ representative we have long been aware of the frustrations of previous generations of excellent former black players unable to make the step from the pitch to the dugout.”

Barnes continues: “As long ago as 2003 we launched the Black Players Coaching Forum with the aim of encouraging players to gain the necessary qualifications to pursue a career in coaching and management. We applaud any effort to make the game more inclusive and accessible to all.”

Hopefully COACH is the first step to ensuring that Chris Hughton is less of a rarity in the future and is closer to the norm. Here is the all important film in question…

For more information log onto TheFA.com/coach.

This is a sponsored post.

Share this article