Chelsea ask children’s charity to investigate claims of racism by former coaches

The investigation relates to alleged racism at the club in the 1980s and 1990s

Chelsea has invited children's charity Barnardo's to help the club in an independent investigation over claims of racism against its coaches, a case which threatens the club with legal action. The charity has been commissioned by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy to oversee the investigation into former coaches Graham Rix and Gwyn Williams, two coaches who have been accused of racist abuse by former youth team players at the club. Four former youth players are alleged to have brought cases against the two, who have been accused of “continued racist bullying and abuse” during their time at the club. The two, who were central figures of the backroom staff at the Bridge during the tenures of Glenn Hoddle, Ruud Gullit and Gianluca Vialli, say that they deny "all and any allegations of racial or other abuse". In a statement regarding the investigation, Chelsea said:

"The allegations will be fully investigated. We are absolutely determined to do the right thing, to assist the authorities and any investigations they may carry out, and to fully support those affected which would include counselling for any former player that may need it."