‘More violent’ – Rangers £14,000 per week defender on ‘frightening’ increase in fan abuse
‘More violent’ – Rangers £14,000 per week defender on ‘frightening’ increase in fan abuse
Leon Balogun acknowledged that he has observed a “frightening” change in fan violence and abuse. (Photo: SNS)
Leon Balogun has acknowledged that a change in fan abuse and an uptick in violence among football followers have scared him.
The Rangers center back discussed inappropriate crowd yells during a FIFPRO virtual conference,
blaming social media for abuse that has “taken a turn for the worse”.
The Ibrox stopper, 35, has noticed a change in the threshold for fans who now believe abuse is acceptable – but was clear the majority
of supporters do not partake in worrying behaviour.
He gave an explanation, saying, “I feel like the continual availability of the real me on the field has reduced the bar for stadium
spectators to the point where some feel like they can act in ways that they really can’t.
“A small percentage of people believe that just because they paid for a ticket to enter the stadium, it gives them the right to mistreat
you. Some people merely want to express their annoyance with you in an extremely improper manner.
“It has developed over the last 16 years since I’ve been a professional. It has taken a turn for the
worse with the introduction and rise of social media.”
Eighty-five percent of player unions concur that the bond between fans and players is positive and ought to be treasured, according to
a workplace safety research.
But 76 percent of respondents agreed that sections of fan culture have “become increasingly more violent and abusive,” and 66 percent
indicated that workplace safety is becoming a bigger worry for football players.
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