Allegations of racial incidents at Kaizer Chiefs have been reported in the media and club legend Lucky Stylianou has addressed them, speaking exclusively to the Siya crew.
On the weekend, Sunday World reported that racial turmoil had allegedly hit the Amakhosi camp due to alleged tensions between black and 'coloured' players.
It has been further alleged that there have also been disciplinary problems at the club due to some players drinking on duty.
However, Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson downplayed the allegations when he spoke to the media after the match against Moroka Swallows on the weekend.
Stylianou has also dismissed the allegations and called on anyone who might be spreading them to come forward with proof.
The Good
On the team's progress under Cavin Johnson
"To discuss progress, I think we still need to see a few more games under Cavin (Johnson) because it takes time for a new coach to implement his style of play. I am not looking at the recent performances and I will only start counting after 10 games. When a new coach comes around, obviously everybody can be a good player. About good players, that's not a problem but it's how he (Johnson) wants to play the game that we need to understand. Is he more defensive, attacking or playing a passing game? That's why a new coach, and especially a caretaker coach, needs to be given a bit of time after he arrives at a club. If you are going to judge a person after four games that can cause problems. My appeal to the supporters and the family, including myself and any other legend, is for reasonable patience. I think it's only fair that he be given a couple of games before the players themselves can adjust to his way of playing," said Stylianou.
The Bad
On the allegations of "racial turmoil" at Naturena
"I have always said that there has never been an inch or centimetre race at Kaizer Chiefs during my time or after my time. Whoever is bringing the racial question, why doesn't he come forward and identify himself? To make a serious allegation, is it because he is not being selected? All young players who don't get selected for the national team blame it on the coach and I don't buy it. If you are going to make such a serious allegation, come forward and prove it. I'm not buying it, from Dr. (Kaizer) Motaung right through to Jessica and all the directors and the playing staff nobody knows about this," he said.
The Ugly
"This has probably been brought up by a player who doesn't play regularly. I'm not buying it and I won't blow this thing out of proportion, and I am saying this with a smile on my face. Kaizer Chiefs is not responsible for a player who is a racist. Chiefs is a big brand and with a history about fairness. Don't be a coward and start making serious allegations like that without identifying yourself," concluded Stylianou.
How should racism be dealt with in sport?
