Paul Kenneth Canoville – Chelsea’s First Black Player – A Thread

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@Kingcanners

1981-1982: In December 1981, Hillingdon Borough received £5,000 for winger, Paul Canoville. Why is Paul one of the most important signings in Chelsea history? Because he was Chelsea’s first ever black player.

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1981-1982(Continued): In the 80’s, Chelsea had a very poor reputation of racism and that sky rocketed when Chelsea signed Paul. April 12th 1982 marked Paul’s debut against Crystal Palace. A day to remember for Paul, but all for the wrong reasons.

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1981-1982(Continued): Paul faced a tower of racial abuse when coming onto the pitch. “I felt physically sick. I was absolutely terrified”, were the words of Paul speaking about his debut and what he had to endure. He ended the season with making 2 substitute appearances.

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1982-1983: Paul started the season with playing 6 consecutive games before a thigh injury side-lined him. He scored his first Chelsea goal against Fulham in a 1-1 draw. Paul helped Chelsea avoid relegation and his name was starting to be sung. However, the racism went on.

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1983-1984: The club signed Pat Nevin signed for Chelsea and became very close friends with Paul. Pat was the only player to come out and defend Paul from the horrid racist abuse he was receiving. Chelsea won promotion to the First Division and Paul scored seven goals.

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1985-1986: Fast forward to the 85-86 season, Chelsea signed Murphy from Palace, who played in the same position as Paul. Paul managed to stay in the first team but he struggled with injuries and he played just 19 games in the 1985–86 season.

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1985-1986(Continued): Paul started to become unsettled at the Club, and had a fight with a teammate who racially abused him on a night out. Paul ended up leaving to join Reading.

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Present: After retiring at the age of 24 due to injury, Paul worked as a driver for children with disabilities. In 2007, he became a classroom assistant. Paul is also involved with the Chelsea foundation and now, is subject to a much warmer welcome at Stamford Bridge.

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