Source: Daily_Mail
Chelsea complain to Malaysia FA over anti-Semitic abuse
Chelsea have lodged an official complaint over abuse received by Yossi Benayoun in their match last week against a Malaysian XI.[LNB]Having reviewed the match, in which Benayoun's every touch was jeered, the club believe abuse directed at the Israel international was anti-Semitic in nature and have therefore complained to the Malaysian FA.[LNB]A statement read: 'Notwithstanding most fans behaving appropriately on the night, we believe Yossi was subjected to anti-Semitic abuse by a number of supporters at the game.[LNB] Abuse: Benayoun was booed every time he touched the ball[LNB]'Such behaviour is offensive, totally unacceptable and has no place in football.[LNB]'The club did not make representations at the time as it was initially unclear as to the nature of the abuse Yossi received, as several players from both teams experienced similar treatment, sometimes louder and longer. [LNB]'However, having taken time to consider the issue fully, it has become apparent that a formal complaint was necessary.[LNB]'Our stay in Malaysia was, on the whole, a very positive experience for all the team travelling on the pre-season tour. It is a shame, therefore, that the behaviour of a minority of supporters is also a memory we take away.'[LNB] Target: The Malaysia FA have launched an inquiry into Benayoun's treatment[LNB] Malaysia as a country is a strong supporter of Palestine and does not recognise Israel.[LNB]A spokesman for anti-racism campaigners Kick it Out said: 'Kick It Out supports the action taken by Chelsea on this matter. After working with the club on the recent 'Y-Word' film, aimed squarely at challenging anti-semitism and anti-Jewish abuse and featuring Frank Lampard, it's a strand of discrimination which is front of mind for both organisations.[LNB]'In addition, the campaign is keen to engage with Malaysian authorities around the issue and how football can play its part in educating mass audiences to become better versed on issues around faith and religion.'[LNB]Meanwhile,Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has said he will quit football when heis no longer able to make the sort of attacking impact which has characterised his career.[LNB]The33-year-old has been a prolific goalscorer from midfield over the yearsand would not relish taking on a more defensive role.[LNB]'I have never been a defensive kind of player,' he was quoted as saying on The Sun's website. 'I love getting up and down the pitch and arriving late into the penalty area.[LNB]'If I felt I wasn't getting there, I wouldn't want to hang around too long. I'll be the first to know when I'm no longer capable of doing that job. Mind you, I'll probably have been sold before then!' CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE FANTASY FOOTBALL GAMEOn the attack! Lampard won't stop going going forward despite new Chelsea roleChelsea star Benayoun racially abused by fans in friendly win over a Malaysia XI All the latest Chelsea news, features and opinion [LNB]
