Rampant sexism in football

Rampant sexism in football

After racism, there is a new malaise in English football. The leech of sexism. There have been abundant instances in recent past where sexist comments have been passed on female members of the football fraternity.

It has been rampant in all levels of English football. The latest incidents have been reported in high profile games like Manchester United and Chelsea along with Chelsea-Man City. All the clubs acknowledged the fact and vehemently tried to condemned it.

Chelsea said in a statement: "'The issue of equality is one that we take extremely seriously at Chelsea Football Club and we abhor discrimination in all its forms, including sexism. We find such behaviour unacceptable and we want it eradicated from the game."

Manchester City admitted "a breakdown in communication" meant "the usual investigation process was not followed".

The club added: "A new specific guidance on sexist abuse was introduced from the very next game and a new training programme implemented."

Manchester United said: "No complaint was made at the time, so any feedback of this nature made after the event has to be referred to the police, which the club did within 24 hours."

The Football Supporters' Federation said it "doesn't receive many complaints in relation to sexist chanting at games, although that isn't to say it doesn't happen".

FA board member Heather Rabbatts has described the abuse as ‘horrible’. She is a lone female member in FA’s 11 member power committee.

"It's about how we all try and ensure the game is open and available to everyone," said Rabbatts.

"Women don't have the confidence to report it. This is the message that we're getting through our network. They are very reluctant to complain.

They feel they should put up with it."

There is a burning issue at our hands which needs immediate attention before it becomes a deep seeded menace like racism. A campaign with strong consequences for the offenders is need of the hour.