Football League to review under-representation of black managers

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 09 October 2014

The Football League announce that they will review the under-representation of black, asian and ethnic minority managers and coaches.

The Football League have announced that they will review the under-representation of black, asian and ethnic minority managers and coaches.

There have been suggestions that the leagues should adopt the 'Rooney Rule', which is used in American football and requires at least one black or ethnic minority to be interviewed for every vacancy.

Chairman Greg Clarke will lead a review, which will involve consultations with clubs throughout the Football League, as well as with the FA.

Clarke said in a statement: "The current under-representation of BAME managers and coaches in the professional game is an important matter. We have consistently recognised the imbalance in representation at first team manager level but have yet to see a comprehensive solution being proposed.

"It is a complex issue that needs a careful and thoughtful appraisal of the current situation in English professional football. This will include collecting and analysing data on BAME representation at all levels of the coach development pipeline, from opportunities for individuals to acquire their coaching qualifications through to appointments at first team level.

"The 'Rooney Rule' has been suggested by some as a potential way forward, however until we have consulted fully with all parties we will remain open minded about any potential solutions."

Keith Curle and Chris Powell are the only black managers in 92 Premier League and Football League clubs.