Tom Ross reacts to Cyrille Regis song claims after West Brom win vs Birmingham
Those allegedly singing disgraceful songs about Cyrille Regis at the West Brom win over Birmingham City deserve to be banned as well, according to Tom Ross.
The broadcaster replied to a question via Twitter on 7 February after it was announced that a Baggies season ticket holder had been arrested on suspicion of racially abusing the Blues’ Juninho Bacuna in the Championship clash on 3 February.
He made clear that he was “equally angry” at anyone associated with the Albion for the alleged abuse directed at the visiting midfielder as he was with rivals apparently insulting the memory of the West Brom legend, although he hadn’t heard the latter.
Ross wrote: “Of course that is [awful] but did not hear it – Cyrille was a great pal and I would want anyone doing that to be banned as well. BTW I posted what West Brom sent me – I would be equally angry at anyone from any club being racist – p.s. read my Birmingham Mail column today.”
No winner in West Brom vs Birmingham City fall out after Bacuna episode
It paints a pretty bleak picture of football fandom if a rousing Baggies win over a local rival is overshadowed by accusations of unforgivable behaviour by supporters on both sides.
It can be tricky for clubs and authorities to take decisive action unless allegations can be proven, but those who were there at the weekend will know what they heard in both directions.
Everyone enjoys a rivalry in football because it matters that much more, but it clearly doesn’t matter so much that any semblance of normal behavioural standards goes out the window.
Some West Brom supporters might be feeling unhappy that the club is being highlighted for negative reasons, especially coming straight after the crowd trouble in the FA Cup clash with Wolves.
But there is no league table of whose supporters have behaved the worst this week and there certainly is no winner when it comes to that, with some elements of the West Brom, Wolves and Birmingham followings all coming across badly in recent weeks.
Those who did nothing wrong will know that, but for those who have been involved in unacceptable elements of the past couple of games it is a very bad look and enough to put people off entirely.
In other West Brom news, Kieran Maguire has reacted to a Baggies loan situation that could get “very scary” fast.
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