Milan midfielder Michael Essien says the football world must act sooner rather than later in order to stop racism in the game.
Verona have picked up a partial stadium closure for their next home match, after fans racially abused Sulley Muntari on Sunday.
For his Milan teammate, measures must be taken to ensure racism has no place in the game.
Milan midfielder Michael Essien says the football world must act sooner rather than later in order to stop racism in the game.
Verona have picked up a partial stadium closure for their next home match, after fans racially abused Sulley Muntari on Sunday.
For his Milan teammate, measures must be taken to ensure racism has no place in the game.
“Racism really makes me sad. The fact that in 2014 there are some stupid people that still behave like this really makes me sad,” Essien has told Milan Channel in an interview today.
“Generally speaking, those situations are awful for us but also for football.
“For instance, it was sad to see an empty ground during the game between CSKA Moscow and Manchester City last night.
“I think that this is the moment to act in order to change this situation. We need to stop these things that happen very often in stadiums once and for all.”
The former Chelsea man has enjoyed his start to the season in Serie A with Milan.
“The game against Verona wasn’t easy but we gave our best and we came out on top.
“Personally, it was great to earn my starting place back on the pitch. I play where Inzaghi asks me to play. It doesn’t matter where.
“He is our manager and obviously he is important to us. He is doing a great job.
“He leaves us a lot of freedom on the pitch, he encourages us to fight in every situation and we play some good football.”
Essien has also expressed his view on Fernando Torres and Keisuke Honda.
“We have a great group here and great players who are always ready when they have to step up
“Fernando Torres is a great player. I see him training at his best every day. I am sure that he’ll help us a lot throughout this season and that he will soon start to score many goals.
“Honda just finds himself in such an incredible form. He always plays for the team and also scores lots of goals.
“I really hope he can carry on scoring and keep doing well.”