Jason Roberts will not wear ‘Kick It Out’ T-shirt this weekend

http://youtu.be/q4TgMUabi_s

Reading striker Jason Roberts has announced that he will not be wearing the customary ‘Kick It Out’ this weekend, after revealing his anger and disappointment at the lack of action from all quarters in tackling racism recently.

The Grenadan striker spoke about his frustration that Kick It Out, despite promising much, have not shown the ability to eradicate racism within the game. And Roberts feels that unless black players take a stand against recent behaviour, then nothing is likely to improve.

I won’t wear one. I find it hard to wear a T-shirt after what has happened in the last year.

I’m totally committed to kicking racism out of football but when there’s a movement I feel represents the issue in the way that speaks for me and my colleagues, then I will happily support it.

I think people feel let down by what used to be called ‘Let’s Kick Racism Out of Football’. People don’t feel like they have been strong enough. Unless they’re independent, unless they don’t have to explain their actions to anyone then they won’t be held accountable.

Although Roberts’ decision will be met by criticism, as many are complimentary of the strides made by Kick It Out, who do not actually hold any regulatory powers, but in fairness to the striker, at least he is doing something, and clearly feels strongly enough to raise his head above the parapet.