Mason Mount addressing the press before England face San Marino at Wembley
(Picture: The FA via Getty Images)Mason Mount has revealed the “hurt” he felt seeing Chelsea team-mates suffer racial abuse.
Both Callum Hudson-Odoi and Reece James have been subjected to racism on social media over recent months.
And England midfielder Mount insists it has to stop.
He said: “Callum and Reece are people I’ve grown up with from a young age. It is not acceptable to have that abuse.
“We all love football, but it doesn’t go past that. It is difficult to see when you’ve grown up with these boys. They are like family, so when it happens it hurts. It should not continue any longer.”
England’s players are still to decide if they will take a knee ahead of kick-off in Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against San Marino.
Gareth Southgate revealed his leadership team of players will discuss the matter further with the rest of squad – but insists they will be united.
He said: “It is a good process to hear other people’s views. It is how we educate ourselves in these matters.
“We will be unified whatever we do. If there is any doubt then we would take the knee.
“I’m respectful of everybody’s opinion. I think there is an impact to be had.
“The debate of knee or walking off the pitch is slightly peripheral. The core issue is racial discrimination. A deeper discussion needs to happen.
“The protest has put it on the table, but we have got to address much deeper issues.”
