AC Milan star Kevin-Prince Boateng has told the game's governing bodies to "wake up" to the fight against racism in football.
The 25-year-old took a stand when confronted by racist chanting during the Rossoneri's friendly match with Pro Patia yesterday by walking off the pitch.
In an interview with CNN, Boateng said that such abuse cannot simply be ignored, while also stating that he would do the same thing again.
"The racists should get 100% attention from all of us every time it happens," said Boateng. "It's the only way that we can kick racism out. I don't care if it's Serie A or Champions League. I would do the same and walk off the pitch.
"I'm sad and angry that I'm the one that has to take action. All the people who support me would support me in a big game. Players like Rio Ferdinand and Patrick Vieira have supported me and I just want to say thank you.
"I'm surprised we're still hearing these things in 2013. It's not the first time in my life that I've heard these things, but I'm 25 now and I've had enough of this.
"FIFA and UEFA should wake up and do something about racism."
The Ghanaian international also said that he was comforted by the support he received from his teammates, who followed him off the pitch.
"I was very happy that the team stood beside me," he added. "It shows that I'm not alone in this. I'm very happy that they supported me."
Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi has also said that his team will leave the pitch no matter what the circumstances.
Michael Penkman
