Racism in football: When does it stop?

Fight against racism in football. Stricter penalties needed to stop abuse of black players. Premier League must take a stand.

Ivan Toney has refused to take the knee following series of threats and abuse he has suffered as a black player, the question is: When does racism stop in football?

Football is our game, our thing, and an integral part of our colourful fabric as humans, but in the wake of unpleasant chants directed at individuals, especially black players, something has to be done, and soon too.

The Premier League continues to lend its voice to the LGBT community, preaching acceptance and coexistence, but the lip service being paid to racism has done nothing good to the cause as players continue to receive threats and abuse after every game.

The "take the knee" gesture has done absolutely nothing to stop the abuse; rather, it has strengthened the scourge.

At what point do people start developing a sense of understanding of the fact that colours mean nothing if we choose to see one another as equals?

Ivan Toney was harassed many times after the 1-1 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates, and both clubs (Arsenal and Brentford) have come out to condemn the act, but do they stop there?

Can they fish someone out to serve as a scapegoat?

Speaking of scapegoats, what punishment will make this unfortunate, yet convenient, scourge stop?

Beyond a lifetime ban at stadiums, can culprits be jailed for a substantial number of years? The stiffer the penalty, the less likely it is for anyone to commit the crime.

Vinicius Junior has been abused several times in La Liga, black players continue to suffer in Italy, France, and other leagues, and you wonder what exactly their offence is.

How do you descend so low as to racially abuse players just because they score against your team or because they miss sitters?

There’s no justification whatsoever for racism, and overzealous fans have to get severely punished to stop the act.

The Premier League board must look for ways to catch offenders; if we can comfortably accommodate the gay community, we should not turn a blind eye and deaf ear to the racism agony.