QuoteHarpal Singh
There has been much talk in recent years about why so few Asian players have made the grade in pro football. But the time for talk has passed.
At least a dozen Asians are now signed to centres of excellence at English league clubs, and more than 70 are attached to clubs’ youth academies and coaching set ups across the country. These young Asian talents are about to change the football picture.
Harpal Singh
“I started playing football as soon as I could walk,” says 25 year-old Harpal Singh, who hails from Pudsey in Leeds and was part of the Leed United youth set up since he was 13. Now playing for Stockport County, he had been tipped to be the first Asian to play for England. Former Leeds manager George Graham was reported in a local newspaper saying, “Liverpool may have Michael Owen, but we have Harpal Singh.”
How did you develop an interest in the game?
I’d always play with my older brother in the garden and when he got a bit older he’d go out and play with his mates and I’d go along. Things just took off from there really.
What do your parents think about your football?
They’ve supported me all the way. Every game my Dad can make it to he’s there watching me, and my Mum’s a big fan – she always asks how I got on.
Do you ever go to the Asian tournaments that take place across the country?
Yeah, I go to watch the one in Bradford which takes place about five minutes across the road from where I live. I also know a few people that play. It’s good to go and watch.
Do people in Pudsey know what you’re doing?
All the people from my old school know what I am doing and the teachers ask how I’m getting on and keep in touch. And my friends are always asking me about when they’re gonna get my name on the back of their shirt.
On loan at Bury
What sort of player do you think you are?
I’m a winger a bit like Ryan Giggs, I like running at players and taking them on.
How important is your identity and the fact that you’re Asian?
I’ve always known it’s going to be different with me being Asian but I’m proud to be Asian and don’t see that as a problem. It makes me more determined to make it. I want to be the first Asian player to make it. The fans won’t be used to seeing Asian players running around. I may get a bit of reaction. But they’ll get used to it.
What would you do if you don’t make it in football?
I’d like to go into the leisure industry, maybe, to coach Asian kids and promote football.
What would you say to any Asian youngsters trying to make it?
Be single minded about the way you approach the game. Don’t think of yourself as an outcast, play your football and enjoy it and whatever happens, happens.
Kick It Out Week of Action 2006
17 - 30 October 2006, Nationwide
Football family comes together with communities to take a stand against racism
"Football? It's our vehicle because, for most of us, it's our passion."
Rashid Bhayat, Coventry Positive Futures project
©2006 KICK IT OUT
Originally Posted by avvenalaf
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