England captain Harry Kane has spoken candidly about the team’s preparedness to handle potential racial abuse during their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the crucial match, Kane emphasized that while the team’s focus remains on football, they have discussed protocols and responses should any incidents occur.
“Unfortunately, this is something we’ve had to prepare for in the past, and we’re ready to handle whatever comes our way in Belgrade,” Kane stated. “Our priority is the match itself, but we’ve had open discussions as a team about how we’ll respond if faced with racial abuse from the stands.”
The concerns stem from previous incidents in European football where players have been subjected to racial slurs and discriminatory chants, particularly in some Eastern European venues. UEFA has strengthened its protocols in recent years, with referees empowered to halt matches in cases of racial abuse.
England manager Lee Carsley supported his captain’s statements: “We’ve been very clear with the players about the support systems in place. They know that walking off the pitch is an option if things become unacceptable, but we hope it doesn’t come to that.”
The English Football Association has been in communication with both UEFA and the Serbian Football Association regarding security measures and anti-discrimination protocols for the match.
Kane added, “Football should be inclusive and welcoming for everyone. We stand united against any form of discrimination, and we’ll make our feelings clear if necessary. But we’re also professionals who want to represent our country with dignity regardless of the circumstances.”
The match carries significant weight in England’s World Cup qualification campaign, with the Three Lions currently leading their group after five matches played.
“While we’re prepared for any negative scenarios, we’re also looking forward to the football challenge itself,” Kane concluded. “Serbia has excellent players, and we respect them as opponents. Our goal is to secure another three points on our road to the World Cup.”
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