Let us bury the case

On 27 September 2012, Chelsea FC fullback, John Terry was found guilty by the English Football Association (FA), for racially abusing Queens Park Rangers', Anton Ferdinand. Though in July,Terry was found not guilty to a racial offence at Westminster Magistrates' Court (England) for the incident that took place in October 23 last year, the FA had proceeded their own investigation to the case which they found the Chelsea player guilty. I am still wondering whether the verdict was made on valid evidence or whether the FA was out to get him.



The 31 year-old, Chelsea fullback, is issued with a four match ban and a  fine of £220 000 (R2.9m) pending appeal. The English Football Assocaition should have laid the case to rest as Terry was   cleared of the allegations by a London court in July. I am not implying that top players should go off the hook when they act out of the global football code of conduct but it is evident that case has affected English football. John also retired from international football which has will impact England's manager, Roy Hodgson's, plans ahead of qualifying for the World Cup which will be hosted in 2014, Brazil. In a statement, he said "I am today announcing my retirement from international football," the former England captain said in his statement.I would like to thank the England managers who have selected me for my 78 caps."

The gravity of the case had displayed when Terry was chosen ahead of the Ferdinand brothers for the 2012 Euro tournament. Racism allegations in football tarnishes the sporting code's image and has led to a wide range of controversial incidents which have been reported in the media. The sport itself does not induce racism. It would be a great day in football if Anton Ferdinand and John Terry would bury this saga and set the example to upcoming players that football brings unity.