Tuesday 15 July 2014 11:59, UK
Former Chelsea and Celtic defender Paul Elliott is to resume his 30-year career tackling discrimination in football after being appointed on the FA’s Inclusion Advisory Board.
Elliott began his playing career at Charlton Athletic and represented Luton Town and Aston Villa before becoming the first black English footballer to play in Italy when he joined Pisa in 1985.
On his return from Italy, he joined Celtic and finally Chelsea, where he became the club’s first black captain in 1991.
“I'm honoured, humbled and delighted to be offered a role by The FA on its Inclusion Advisory Board,” said Elliott.
Elliott was forced to resign from a previous role with the FA last year for sending a private text message containing unacceptable language.
The 49-year-old was forced to apologise but continued his work in the field of inclusion and anti-discrimination.
“I used inappropriate language in anger. I immediately apologised unreservedly and profusely to my family, community and stakeholders and resigned from various roles,” he said.
“I continued my charitable work in various roles as chair, patron and ambassador throughout this period but, my passion for this work has never left my soul.
“I have been committed voluntarily for the last 30 years in this area and I still feel I have much to offer”.
Heather Rabbatts, Inclusion Advisory Board chair, added: “Paul has a long-standing career in tackling discrimination in football.
“He has continued with his ongoing roles at UEFA and FARE during his time away from the domestic game and we welcome him on to the IAB to help the group with its work.”
