Harry Kane has declared that England are prepared to walk off the pitch during their World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade should any of his team-mates face racist abuse. The Rajko Mitic Stadium in the Serbian capital is operating under restricted capacity following racist conduct by Serbia supporters during their fixture with Andorra in June, which led to sanctions.
England have demonstrated their willingness to take a firm stance against discrimination, as evidenced during their 2019 encounter with Bulgaria. During that match in Sofia, proceedings were halted twice in the opening period after home supporters racially abused several Three Lions players. Former manager Gareth Southgate revealed England contemplated abandoning the fixture following the racist incidents, though his squad were determined to continue and make a statement, ultimately securing a commanding 6-0 victory.
With speculation mounting over England potentially encountering similar hostility, captain Kane was questioned about whether he would spearhead such action again and confirmed his readiness.
The Bayern Munich forward declared: “Yes, we had a similar situation in Bulgaria. UEFA have the protocols in place for us to follow. We know the steps, we know the situation.”
“We’re talking about something that’s not happened yet. We’ll take every in our stride, everything as it comes. We’re clear in what we want to do. Let’s just see what happens tomorrow night. We’re more focused on Serbia as a team and how we can hurt them.”
England are aiming to maintain their perfect record during this international break after defeating Andorra at the weekend, with manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledging that whilst he hasn’t broached the subject with his squad, FA officials have addressed the matter.
He revealed: “I didn’t [talk to the players about it] but the people in charge at the FA talked with us about it, yes. We are aware. And still, I always believe in the good. I always believe that we will have a high-level sporting competition and celebrate the sport for what it is.
“We are aware of the protocols but I don’t want to put the big focus on it because I believe in the beauty of sport and in the beauty of the game. That we have can have a respectful and emotional match tomorrow.”