PFA Double Standards:
1994. Stuart Pearce is alleged to have racially abused Paul Ince. PFA chief Gordon Taylor's response is that it was:
"in the heat of the moment...Stuart regrets what he said, and he'll be ringing Paul to apologise. Hopefully that will be the end of it."
2002. Reading's John Mackie admits to racial abuse of Sheffield United's Carl Asaba. PFA chief Gordon Taylor comments:
"Obviously we were very concerned about the comments that were made but it's to John Mackie's credit that he has subsequently reacted in this way and apologised. We would expect Carl Asaba to accept that apology, which was unreserved, and do not feel there is any reason for the FA to take any action in this case."
2011. Luis Suarez makes alleged reference to PAtrice Evra's colour, verdict and sentence pending appeal. After the incident PFA chief Gordon Taylor comments:
"Only by having a full inquiry on such matters can we get to the bottom of it and try to make sure that such problems don't arise again in the future."
After the initial verdict:
"No one can say the FA have ducked this issue and bearing in mind outcry in this country over Sepp Blatter's remarks it sends out an important message."
So when an English player does it, an apology is enough. The FA shouldn't take action. But when it's a foreigner only a "full inquiry" will do. The "issue" must not be "ducked".
What's the difference, Gordon?
Did times change?
Did you change?
Or is the bigotry residing somewhere other than in Luis Suarez?
