Source: FOOTYMAD
Neymar Says He Has No Need To Apologise
Accusations of racism can stick and a simple apology would go a long way to repair relations Scotland midfielder Scott Brown has now stepped into the 'Banana-gate' fuss and wants to see an apology from Brazil for the allegations of racism levelled at Scottish supporters by Neymar, who scored both goals in the 2-0 friendly win on Sunday at The Emirates. Neymar complained afterwards that he had been the victim of racist abuse, including the throwing of a banana onto the pitch, a claim strenuously denied by the SFA and the Tartan Army fans' organisation. Following an investigation by the Met and Arsenal it was found that the banana was thrown onto the pitch by a German student sitting in the area of the stadium reserved for Brazilian supporters, and that no Scotland supporters were involved. SFA chief executive Stewart Regan wrote to the Brazilian federation (CBF) to request an apology, which he said would be welcomed either from Neymar or from the federation. However, Neymar has refused to apologise, claiming that he did not single out Scottish fans as a guilty party. But Scotland midfielder Brown, speaking ahead of Celtic's trip to Inverness on SPL duty on Saturday, said: "We are not a racist country and we know it wasn't us, it was some young lad from Germany. I think they should just apologise and get it over and done with." However, Neymar had posted a statement on his official website, explaining his position. He wrote: "I was surprised on Thursday by a letter from the Scottish FA, in which they demand an apology from me or from the Brazilian Football Confederation regarding the incident involving a banana thrown toward the field during the Brazil v Scotland friendly on Sunday, March 27. Stewart Regan says that the 'accusations' made after the match cast doubt on the reputation of 'good-humoured and respectful' Scottish fans. At no time, even at the end of the game, still enveloped by the thrill of scoring the two goals that won the game, did I accuse any person or any group of supporters, of whatever nationality, of having committed such an act. All the interviews I gave at the end of the match, in Portuguese, are available for consultation with media companies that covered the friendly. Yes, I did lament the fact, condemn any and all prejudice, but I repeat, at no time did I accuse anybody. So I do not understand why I have to retract what I said. The requirement from the Scottish, after all that happened, seems somewhat ironic, since, if there has been prejudice, it is us, the players, who should 'require' a formal apology."
