In an open letter to the football community, former Socceroo Ray Richards has criticised Fox Sports commentator Robbie Slater for his recent public spat with SBS pundit Craig Foster, and proudly defended the actions of the 1974 Socceroos.
In an open letter to the football community, former Socceroo Ray Richards has criticised Fox Sports commentator Robbie Slater for his recent public spat with SBS pundit Craig Foster, and proudly defended the actions of the 1974 Socceroos.
Richard, a member of the -74 squad that was the first Australian team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, called Slater-s claims of racism “ridiculous”, and went on to praise to actions of the -74 and ‘97 squads who fought for better working conditions.
The letter, in full, reads:
“As one of the original Socceroos from the 1974 where the name was born, it saddens me to read Robbie Slater-s recent rant and attacks on his former teammate Craig Foster.
“Slater-s claims of racism are ridiculous. I am English by birth and if this claim is founded on an anti-British style of play, then I-m a candidate for racist of the year. Over many years our coaching ranks have been inundated with British coaches and we need to realise that guts and determination are no longer enough.
“With our multi-cultural nation there is a serious opportunity to develop a uniquely Australian style for our juniors to embrace. Foster is right, we have moved on and need to continue.
“Socceroo mateship is what the legend is all about. Slater-s choice to break the unwritten code of all national teams of all sports of this great nation and reveal private details throws a dark shadow over the green and gold and the Socceroos legend itself.
“Most, if not all Socceroos squads, have had disputes with the national administrative body over conditions and monetary compensation, just as we did at the 12th hour before flying out to Germany for Australia-s first appearance at the World Cup.
“We set up a leadership group in 1974 with some its members the greatest names ever to wear the green and gold. The 1997 squad that Slater refers to did the same. Our concerns were similar to theirs. We had teammates that needed to be looked after. Teammates that helped us qualify but would not be going to Germany in the final squad.
“The difference then was that we stuck together, as mates do. “As mentioned previously, the Socceroos legend over many years has been built on strength of character, mateship and being there for your players when things get tough.
“Unfortunately, the fabric isn-t always cut to fit the individual, but that is in the minority. Maybe only one!
“To all past, current and future Socceroos, I ask you to consider what you represent, enhance the legend with your own actions, and build on its reputation.”