Norwich City: Stuart Webber comments about black players 'do not reflect club's views'

Stuart Webber became Norwich sporting director after leaving Huddersfield Town

Norwich City say comments by former sporting director Stuart Webber about five black players "do not in any way reflect the wider views" of the club.

Webber said in a newspaper interview that Raheem Sterling, Abu Kamara, Jonathan Rowe, Max Aarons and Jamal Lewis might have ended up "in jail" had they not become footballers.

His comment was widely condemned.

"Norwich City is a home for everyone," the Championship club said in a statement published on their website.

"We remain committed in our work across equality, diversity and inclusion to create an environment where all can feel welcome and valued.

"We will continue to work with the FA, Kick It Out and other authorities to help deliver a culture of inclusivity and belonging for our supporters, players and staff.

Webber left Norwich last November after six and a half years at Carrow Road, during which they were twice promoted to the Premier League.

The 39-year-old made his comments while speaking to the Pink Un newspaper about climbing Mount Everest for the Summit Foundation, a charity he founded with his wife.

Rowe and Kamara are current Norwich players - although Kamara is currently on loan at Portsmouth - and Aarons and Lewis were also at the club before joining Bournemouth and Newcastle respectively.

Chelsea's former Manchester City and Liverpool forward Sterling is the highest-profile name among the group, having played 82 games for England.

Kamara said his family were "shocked and saddened" by Webber's remarks, and added: "You don't have to be a professional athlete to avoid living a life of crime.

"You can be whatever you want to be as long as you work hard, believe in yourself and be consistent in what you do."

In their statement, Norwich said they were focused on speaking to Rowe and Kamara directly to "understand their concerns" and provide support.

"The club are also in the process of reaching out to the other named players, whilst also engaging in dialogue with Kick It Out," the statement read.

"We will continue to work with the FA, Kick It Out and other authorities to help deliver a culture of inclusivity and belonging for our supporters, players and staff."

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