Kick It Out ambassador Chris Powell
Powell is now into his 21st year as a professional, and has managed to balance his playing career with his responsibilities to the PFA since he was appointed as chairman in 2005.
Have you ever suffered racism in football or in every day life?
Unfortunately, yeah, in both. Early on in my career it was quite rife, but as I've got older it has become less and less. Now and then it does rear its ugly head with old monkey chants and what have you. In everyday life it still happens sometimes too, though it's not so much in your face.
Does it affect you when it happens?
Usually, it's a player trying to put you off your game. But if it puts you off your game that means they have won, so you just try to show that you are a better player than them, and that you're going to try and win the game no matter what taunt they use. When it's from the crowd it's a bit different. When you look back at what John Barnes, Brendon Batson and Clyde Best went through back in the late '60s and early '70s, they overcame it by scoring goals and shutting up the opposing fans. What they went through has made it easier for me and other black players today.
What is your message to young people who are getting abused or bullied at school?
Do something about it because the more you stay quiet, the more you are going to suffer. Kids at school should report it to their teachers and headteachers. We live in a society of people of different colours, creeds and cultures, and we've got to try to live together. Racism is a cheap shot, but it does hurt.
You're giving your backing to Kick It Out and it's work- whys that?
I'm happy to be an ambassador for the campaign and hope that by adding my voice to the campaign I can make a difference. As a role model I think it's part my responsibility. The least I can do.
A few years ago you made your debut for England. How did that feel?
It was fantastic. I was born and bred here and have always wanted to play for England. I think it's a great feeling when you go out there and realise that you are not wearing a replica shirt but the actual shirt of the country and there are thousands of young people looking up to you. It was a fantastic feeling.
