Les Ferdinand, a former iconic figure at Queens Park Rangers and a celebrated England striker, recently revealed that the criticism he faced while serving as QPR’s director of football was rooted in his race. In a candid conversation on the latest episode of Kammy and Ben’s Proper Football Podcast, Ferdinand highlighted the challenges he and other individuals from the black community encounter when pursuing opportunities in men’s football.
“Some of the criticism that came was because of my colour,” Ferdinand stated frankly during the podcast. He went on to emphasize that competence, not color, should determine one’s success or failure in such a role. “I always say to people, ‘If I was a bad director of football, it wasn’t because of my colour. It was just, I was a bad director of football. If I was a good one, it wasn’t going to be because of my colour. It was because of my abilities.'”
Furthermore, Ferdinand questioned the prevailing notion that he had to excel in his position just because he was the only director of football of color in the league. This assumption, he believed, was unfair and unfounded.
Earlier this year, a report by the Black Footballers Partnership revealed that only 4.4% of black employees held management-related positions in football. Ferdinand’s experience as a trailblazer was marked by challenges, and he expressed his love for the role but admitted it became increasingly toxic toward the end of his tenure.
The heart of Ferdinand’s argument lies in the disparity of opportunities afforded to black individuals compared to their white counterparts. He pointed out how some directors of football and managers have had multiple opportunities despite mixed success, while black professionals often find it difficult to secure their first chance. The lack of opportunity, according to Ferdinand, is a key factor contributing to the low representation of black managers and directors of football in English football.
Ferdinand’s activism goes beyond words, as he’s actively involved in an organization advocating for black players’ rights. He stressed that over 200 former and current players are part of this initiative, all with the shared desire for equal opportunities in football.
Les Ferdinand’s illustrious career as a footballer, which included stints with Newcastle and Tottenham, speaks for itself. His observations and criticisms regarding racial disparities in football management roles add an important perspective to the ongoing discussions about diversity and inclusion in the sport.
On a related note, Ferdinand has previously criticized the Football Association’s football leadership diversity code, stating that it has made “no difference whatsoever” in improving the employment prospects for black individuals in football. It’s clear that he is not just speaking up; he’s actively pushing for change in the world of football.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Diversity in Football
What was the primary issue Les Ferdinand faced as QPR’s director of football?
Les Ferdinand revealed that he faced criticism in his role as QPR’s director of football, and he attributed much of it to his race.
What was Les Ferdinand’s stance on his competence in the role?
Ferdinand emphasized that his success or failure in the role should be determined by his abilities, not his color. He firmly believed that competence should be the deciding factor.
Why did Les Ferdinand raise the question of his need to be successful?
He questioned whether he was labeled as needing to be successful simply because he was the only director of football of color in the league. Ferdinand felt this assumption was unfair and unjust.
What is the significance of the low representation of black individuals in football management roles?
The low representation of black managers and directors of football in English football highlights the lack of opportunities available to individuals from the black community. Ferdinand stressed that this disparity is a major issue.
What is Les Ferdinand’s involvement with an organization for black players?
Ferdinand is actively involved with an organization advocating for the rights and opportunities of black players in football. Over 200 former and current players are part of this initiative, all working towards equal opportunities.
4 comments
Les Ferdinand’s words r important. We all luv the game, don’t matter where we from. Skin color shudnt be a thing.
This ain’t just in soccer, it’s everywhere. we need more fairness and eqality across the board.
It’s time for a change in all fields, not just sports. Let’s support diversity and skills over anything else!
les ferdinand is so right, it aint about colour, it’s bout if u good at ur job. gotta give evryone a fair shot, no matter the skin tone.