Kelly Davies, the first black woman to play for England, will be celebrated at an annual ceremony highlighting the most influential black people in English football.
Davies won 82 caps for England between 1982 and 1998 and is recognized for her achievements in women's football.
“I'm very honored and very humbled,” Davis said.
“This shines a light on the generation I played with, because we weren’t really well known before.”
The former Croydon, Liverpool and Napoli forward added: “In the soccer world [I encountered] Casual racism becomes even more obvious when people say things with abandon. I ignored it. I wanted to play soccer, it was a passion.
“As I get older, I get more courageous, so if someone says something in front of me, maybe it will happen.” [you can] Explain why the language they are using is rude. ”
Davis will receive the Keith Alexander Award, joining a wide range of influential figures from Caribbean and African heritage.
“She is a pioneer and a leader,” said Football Blacklist founder Leon Mann.
“We feel she deserves more attention from the next generation and is celebrated by everyone who loves football.”
The annual Football Black List recognizes the efforts of black people in various areas of the game.
“This is a particularly important time to celebrate women of color, given the recent mistreatment of black women in both politics and soccer,” said co-founder Mann, who stood alongside Rodney Hines. We must come together to reject this discrimination.” Take initiative.
“This event would not have been possible without the support of the black community and the wider football family and I would like to thank the Premier League for their continued support of this important celebration.”
England players Trent Alexander-Arnold, Nikita Paris and Jess Carter have been named on the 2023 squad, along with Burnley's Lyle Foster and Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremy Frimpong.
Burnley manager Vincent Kompany and former England manager Hope Powell, who is now Birmingham City's women's technical director, are on the coaching list.
They are joined by Hull City manager Liam Rosenier, Port Vale manager Darren Moore and West Ham academy coach Nicole Farley.
