Racist reputation nearly cost Blues Yobo

By Chris Kirwan
August 11 2002

Joseph Yobo has admitted that tales of Everton being a racist club caused him to have doubts about signing for the Blues. Once again it was David Moyes' persuasion that convinced a player to sign the forms.

"When I spoke to the manager before I joined, we talked about the club and the problems they have had with black players here," said a concerned Yobo. "We spoke about it quite a bit because it was something that was of concern to me. When I saw what happened to Alex Nyarko last year I was afraid to come to Everton. I don't know him personally, but I played against him in France and thought it was sad what happened."

"So, I spoke with David Moyes about my concerns and I was very happy with our discussion. But I suppose the fans will be kind to you if you perform well, so that is my ambition."

It's certainly a worry for Everton Football Club that despite efforts to stamp out racism, the reputation of the club has spread as far as Marseille. It is such reputations that cost teams the chance of buying top players, the Blues can testify to that with Les Ferdinand admitting it played a part in him turning down Everton in favour of Newcastle.

Last year saw a major anti-Racism campaign by the Blues that was supported by the vast majority of Evertonians, and widely applauded by organisations such as 'Kick it Out'. But it is clear that there is still a very long way to go.


Go to 'Kick It Out', for more information about football's anti-racism campaign. Help get racism out of Goodison.