The Man Who Changed The Face of English Football

Viv Anderson is widely regarded as a trailblazer for black players in English football. He was the first black player to represent England in a full international match, breaking down barriers for future generations. Despite the racism he faced, Anderson let his performances on the field do the talking. As a result, he went on to have a successful career with clubs such as Nottingham Forest, Arsenal and Manchester United. This article outlines how Viv Anderson changed the face of English football forever.

Born in 1956 in Clifton, Nottinghamshire, Viv Anderson began his career at his local club, Nottingham Forest. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in the country. It wasn’t long before he caught the attention of some of the top teams in the country. He would be loyal to Forest for 10 seasons. Playing probably his best football under the watchful eye of manager Brian Clough.

Racial Abuse

He was part of the side that won promotion to the First Division in 1977, winning the title. Along with the League Cup, a year later. Anderson was one of the first black players to represent top English clubs at the time. Sadly,he regularly suffered racial abuse from fans of rival teams. He was regularly pelted with bananas and targeted with racist chants. Anderson made his debut for England in November 1978, for a friendly against  Czechoslovakia. In doing so he became the first black player to play a full international for England. He would go on to win 30 caps for England, scoring twice in the process.

In 1984, Viv Anderson made a move to Arsenal. During his time at Arsenal, Anderson was a consistent performer. In the process helping the team win the League Cup Final against Liverpool in 1987. Such was the good form he was rewarded with a three-year contract offer from Arsenal at the end of the 1987 season.

Fergie’s 1st Signing

Arsenal expected Anderson to agree to the new deal but he instead signed with Manchester United. funnily enough, the same club that had released him as a teenager. He was Alex Ferguson’s first signing as the new manager of Manchester United.

At Manchester United, Viv Anderson was a key player in the team. However, for his four years at Old Trafford all he had to show for it was an FA Cup Final win in 1989.

After leaving Manchester United, Viv Anderson played for several other clubs. These included Sheffield Wednesday, Barnsley and Middlesbrough, before retiring from professional football in 1996.

Post Career

After his playing career, Anderson has remained involved in the sport. He has worked as a coach and a commentator and has also worked as a scout for several clubs.

Anderson is widely regarded as one of the best right-backs of his generation. He was known for his pace, his stamina, and his ability to overlap and provide support for his team’s attackers. He was also a strong tackler and a solid defender. As a trailblazer for black players in English football, his success on the field helped pave the way for future generations of black footballers.

Despite the racism he faced on and off the field, Viv Anderson never let it get the better of him. He always handled it with dignity and grace, and always let his game do the talking. He broke down many barriers and played a vital role in the progress of black players in the sport.

Trailblazer for Diversity

Anderson’s contribution to football is not only limited to his playing career, but also his post-career activities. He was an ambassador for Show Racism the Red Card, a campaign that encourages people to speak out against racism in football. Anderson was also an advocate for increased diversity in coaching, working hard to ensure that more black and ethnic minority coaches have the opportunity to succeed in the sport.

In conclusion, Viv Anderson was not just a footballer but an icon and trailblazer. He was a true professional on and off the field, whose performances and attitude opened doors for many black players to follow. Anderson made a significant impact on English football during his playing career and after it. He is a true legend of the sport and his contributions will be remembered for many years to come.