It appears Ratcliffe’s relationship with many of United’s fans has been harmed too. <\/p>\n
“Comments from the club’s senior leadership should make inclusion easier, not harder”, posted the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST).<\/p>\n
Ghulam Haydar of the Manchester United Muslim Supporters’ Club (MUMSC) told BBC Sport that Ratcliffe’s apology was “a first step”, but said he would like the 73-year-old to agree to a meeting with their members in order to provide some assurances.<\/p>\n
“This is a global club\u2026 what’s he going to do to actually assure us that the club is a welcoming space for people of colour, people of migrant backgrounds?” he asked.<\/p>\n
MUMSC has said it does not feel that Ratcliffe’s apology “sufficiently addresses the seriousness” of what was said. <\/p>\n
“Expressing regret for causing offence is not the same as acknowledging the wider impact of words used. Leadership requires accountability as well as openness to debate.” <\/p>\n
Kick It Out – which works to fight racism, sexism and homophobia in football and says overall reports about discrimination have risen again this campaign after last season’s record high, external<\/a> – told BBC Sport that it has already received a number of reports about Ratcliffe’s comments. <\/p>\n