JEWISH groups slammed “disgraceful” and “scandalous” Sheffield United after the Saudi-owned club were the only team in the Prem not to sign up for a declaration against anti-Semitism.
Premier League chiefs confirmed the League had adopted International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of anti-Semitism as part of its campaign against discrimination.
But while 19 of the 20 Prem clubs signed up individually to the statement, the Blades opted out.
And that brought a furious backlash from Jewish and anti-discrimination groups.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism said: “The Premier League’s adoption of the international definition of anti-Semitism is a momentous day for everyone who opposes racism in sport.
“It is therefore all the more astonishing that Sheffield United alone would disgracefully decline to adopt the definition.
“This sends the wrong message to fans and players and undermines the growing consensus that racism has no place in football.
“Serious questions must now be asked of the owners and management of the club over this scandalous own goal.”
Amanda Bowman, vice president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, added: “We would urge Sheffield United to follow the Premier League’s example and sign up as soon as possible.
“That would be a sign of their commitment to identifying and combating the anti-Jewish racism which has for too long stained the reputation of English football.”
The Bramall Lane outfit are owned by Prince Abdullah Al Saud, a member of the Saudi Royal Family.
Saudi Arabia is one of 16 Arab nations which refuses to recognise the existence of the State of Israel.
While the Blades insisted the club “supported” the IHRA definition, Sheffield United did not promise to sign up independently and declined to explain if the decision was linked to their ownership
Sheffield has a “small but active” Jewish population and the city’s “United Synagogue” is situated a mile or so from Bramall Lane.
The club statement “acknowledged” the Prem decision and said the club supported it “as a shareholder”.
United added: “We should also like to stress our ongoing work and commitment with regard to equality, diversity and inclusion, plus a zero tolerance approach to any form of discrimination, including anti-Semitism.
“Through our support of a number of campaigns, we have consistently reaffirmed our deep commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.”
However, Jonathan Metliss, of Action Against Discrimination, said: “We hope they come round to signing up.
“Sheffield United and its supporters do not have a history nor record of anti-Semitism or anti-Semitic behaviour but it would be better to have them on board.”
