Cole praises inclusive West Ham

  • by Staff Writer
  • Friday, 2nd February 2018

Former West Ham United striker Carlton Cole has insisted that players of African origin were welcomed at the club throughout his time as a Hammer, after the club.

Cole, now 34, spent a total of nine years at West Ham in two spells from 2006 to 2015. And in reference to the 'African players' scandal, he says that there were never any race issues at the club during the period in which he was an employee.


Cole pictured with fellow former Hammer Paolo Di Canio


"Not many people have played for West Ham United longer than me and African players have always been made most welcome by the fans and club," said Cole in a statement to the Press Association.

"I am of African heritage and am indeed proud of that, I am also proud to have played for my country. In my nine years at West Ham United it was fantastic, the fans and club have always judged players on their football ability, work ethic and loyalty.

"West Ham United is a club that is proud of its diversity and has not tolerated discrimination during the whole time I played there and been associated with the club.

"We all have to be completely against any form of prejudice, racism and discrimination, football must be about inclusion and equality. I am pleased to see that the club have acted so swiftly to investigate any accusations of discrimination and I’m sure they’ll reach a satisfactory conclusion.”

Meanwhile it has emerged that another unnamed senior official left West Ham some three months ago following an investigation. Who and why has however not been revealed, although the club confirm it was not related to the current Tony Henry investigation.

* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.



More News