A Macclesfield FC player bravely spoke on national radio this morning, in the wake of racism suffered by England players.

Ryan Rogers (21), who signed for Macclesfield FC last month, appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live this morning.

He appeared on the 5 Live Breakfast after England national football team starts Bukayo Saka (19), Jadon Sancho (21) and Marcus Rashford (23) were subject to racist abuse online following England's defeat to Italy in Sunday's EURO 2020 final.

"You know what's mad: I knew straight away when they missed the pens it was going to happen," he said.

"These racial comments - I wasn't surprised by it. I knew it was gonna happen, I expected it to happen, and the fact that I even expected it was going to happen it just wasn't right.

Rogers, who is of a similar age to the three racially abused players, appeared on the BBC with his pal and fellow player Dean Makunike.

"When I was young I remember having a conversation with my parents the fact that [because] of the colour of my skin, I've always had to work ten times harder than maybe other people just because of the way I am," he recalled.

"I don't wanna get older and have to tell my son that he is going to have to work ten times harder just because of his skin colour.

"In the 21st century that shouldn't happen."

Rogers also praised forward Marcus Rashford, who has been in the public spotlight for the longest, and also has a mural defaced in Manchester yesterday.

"What Marcus has done for the country this year is outstanding," Ryan also said.

Ryan's employers - Macclesfield FC were quick to praise their player, simply tweeting: "Well said @RyRogers_", with a series of clapping emojis.

The clip has over 3,200 views on Twitter, and was heard by hundreds of thousands live.

The two minute interview excerpt can be listened to here.

You can listen to the full programme, which was presented by Rachel Burden, here.

Ryan may play tonight in Macc's next pre-season friendly. You can learn more about that game here.

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