Chris Dolby does not sound the most authentic ethnic name, but he was the first Asian footballer of note to play in the Football League.

Dolby moved through the ranks at Rotherham before signing as a professional at the club in 1993.

He spent three years there before going on to ply his trade mainly in the semi-professional ranks, but he is now back at Millmoor as coach of the under-14 side.

Although there is still a desperate shortage of Asians in English football, Dolby believes the situation is improving.

"Asian kids are now playing at grass roots, comprehensive school and Sunday league level, which was not happening before," he said.

"Asians used to divide themselves off before and play in Asian-only leagues. But if they are thinking of progressing, that won't help them.

Attitudes changing

"They need to play in mixed local teams and that is now happening to a degree."

Dolby was adopted by English parents and he believes that helped him in his career.

This is an aspect that he sees changing.

"One of the main problems was that Asians would play up to a certain point, about 12 or 13 years of age, and then stop playing," he said.

"I don't know whether that was down to their upbringing under the old school of parents, but Asian families now seem to see football as a good living.

"And, if you have got the talent, use it."

Pakistani tour

Dolby says that Leeds' Harpal Singh and Newcastle's Michael Chopra, who are both on the verge of making first-team debuts, are examples of young Asians making it in professional football.

And Dolby allayed fears about racism in football.

"To be perfectly honest, I could count the number of racist incidents I have suffered on one hand, which surprises people," he said.