Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira admits lack of black managers in the Premier League ‘troubles’ him

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira admits the lack of black managers in the Premier League keeps him awake at night after being named on the Football Black list this week.

Patrick Vieira who is the only black manager leading a team in the Premier League has never turned a blind eye when the issue of black managers comes up- and he again reiterates his growing concern for the lack of opportunity to ex-black players.

He told the press: “It troubles me a lot. It’s difficult for me to understand it. I think it just shows there’s still a long way to go.”

The Crystal Palace manager enjoyed an amazing playing career at Arsenal and has been an ambassador for all aspiring black players who want to attempt coaching at some point after they have hanged their boots.

The Football Black List is an event which celebrates and honours the achievement of black professionals at the highest level in English football.

Other black players to have made the list include Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Arsenal’s in-form winger Bukayo Saka.

Pundit and ex-England player Lianne Sanderson was also on this year’s list.

A report published in October revealed that 43% of Premier League and 34% of EFL players were black, but only 4.4% of managers.

Further statistics showed that 14% of those with top coaching qualifications - a Uefa pro licence - are black, and of those in executive, leadership and ownership positions in football, only 1.6% are black.

Vieira enjoyed a special first season as Palace boss leading the Eagles to FA Cup last four before a defeat to Chelsea brought it all down, this season, Palace have crashed out of the Cup but can still finish in the top half of the Premier League table.