Reports of discriminatory abuse in football have increased by 11% from last season – the sixth year in a row reports have risen.

Figures from anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out have revealed that there were a total of 520 reports in 2017-18, up from 469 in 2016-17. Reports of racism make up 53% of the overall total - up 22% from the previous season - while reports of homophobia have increased by 9%.

Kick It Out chair, Lord Ouseley, said: "It is hugely disappointing to have to reveal, yet again, increasing levels of all forms of discriminatory abuse at football. While the increased reports reflect a greater inclination among fans to complain about unacceptable abuse, these trends reflect, in part, what is happening in the rest of society. Hate crime reports have doubled over the last year to more than 94,000.”

It's clearer than ever that bodies such as the FA need to keep up their efforts to ensure we see equality at all levels of the game, with their project to place BAME coaches at every level of the England national team a positive start.

It's also important that black voices continue to tell of their stories, which the likes of Rhian Brewster and Ian Wright have done in recent times. Wright's documentary looking at the impact of black footballers in Britain – 'Out Of Their Skin' – premiered on ITV4 last night and is essential viewing for every football fan.