Likely Rosenior appointment gives 'hope' - Canoville

Chelsea's first black player, Paul Canoville, says the expected appointment of Liam Rosenior as manager offers "hope".

Rosenior is set to become the 12th black manager in Premier League history and the fifth black British boss to take a permanent position in England's top flight.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Canoville said: "Liam Rosenior is a quality coach who knows the game inside out, and that's what matters most. I want to wish him and his staff all the best. We need them to succeed – simple as that.

"But, as Chelsea's first black player, I would be lying if I said this doesn't move me. I broke ground back in the day and faced things no player should face, just because of the colour of my skin."

Canoville, who was subjected to racist abuse in the 1990s after making his Chelsea debut, now works closely with the club through his charitable foundation and has seen changes since his playing days.

"Since then, we've had trailblazers: Paul Elliott, the first black captain; Ken Monkou, the first black player of the year and Ruud Gullit showing we could manage at the highest level," he said.

"What really strikes me about Liam is that he grew up and played not far from here – he knows this community. His dad Leroy has an MBE for his work tackling discrimination in sport. That's exactly what we do at The Paul Canoville Foundation with young people every day.

"When kids see someone like Liam managing their club – someone who looks like them, who's from their area, who comes from a family that fights for what's right – that's powerful. It shows them the path is there.

"So yes, it's a massive moment for the club, for London and for every young person dreaming big. But let's back Liam and let the man do his work."