FA insists John Terry racism case will be ‘independent’

The Football Association have assured anti-racism campaigners the regulatory process that will hear John Terry’s charge is fully independent.

Terry has been charged with using offensive and insulting behaviour towards Anton Ferdinand at Loftus Road last October, including a reference to colour. England coach Roy Hodgson caused eyebrows to be raised when he said he hoped the case against Terry would not be proven. The verdict could have dire consequences for Terry’s England future – something Hodgson has a vested interest in – however, representatives of both Kick it Out and Football Against Racism have expressed concern that Hodgson should speak publicly in this way. Kick it Out chairman Lord Ousley was so concerned he rang FA counterpart David Bernstein for assurances about the procedure, which will not be heard until next week.

“In responding to complaints and representations made to the organisation today, Kick It Out reiterates that it cannot and will not do anything to undermine the independent regulatory process of The FA and is advising others to do likewise,” said Ousley in a statement. “However, I have spoken with FA Chairman David Bernstein in relation to comments made by England manager Roy Hodgson. He has given me a categoric assurance that the independent regulatory process is free from any influence and is indeed independent.”

The FA added: “Further to comments from England Manager Roy Hodgson last night, The FA has reiterated that its regulatory processes are independent. The England Manager, FA Chairman or General Secretary have no input into regulatory proceedings. We have reminded Kick it Out of this today.”

Earlier, Piara Power, executive director of Football Against Racism, branded Hodgson’s intervention as “foolish”. “Hodgson’s comments on Terry are foolish,” he said. “It is not helpful to the process the FA has undertaken in any way. The England manager is employed by the FA, who have a dual role in running the national team and being the governing body. Whatever support Roy Hodgson wants to give to a member of his squad, he also has to remember the FA’s wider role.”