Diversity in Professional Football: Dr Lawrence on BBC News
Dr Stefan Lawrence, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Health at Newman University, has spoken with BBC News about the current topic which highlights the lack of diversity within top level football in the UK. With reports stating there are only 10 professional footballers of British Asian heritage playing in the UK. The discussions were highlighted after comments were made from FA Chairman Greg Clarke surrounding career interests, who has since resigned.
Reports have suggested that only 0.25% of professional footballers in the UK would identify as British Asian. Speaking with BBC News on Thursday (12th November), Dr Lawrence highlighted that he believes to be truly representative on the field, there should be an aim to be representative off the field also with involving coaching staff and scouts who have experience of dealing with such issues within the professional game.
Dr Lawrence is often asked to share his views on such matters, drawing on his research and expertise as the co-editor of Digital Football Cultures: Fandom, Identities and Resistance; Founder of the Digital Football Network; and an independent member of Birmingham FA’s Disciplinary Commission and Anti-Discrimination Panel.