Speo signs up to show red card

The midfielder was one of the star names who attended a Show Racism the Red Card afternoon at Anfield, where 120 Merseyside children learned why racism is wrong and how they can beat it.

Former Reds John Barnes and Howard Gayle were also in the line-up as the nine and 10-year-olds participated in the latest of 50 events happening at football clubs around the country.

The youngsters were set tasks that got them thinking about racism.

Spearing, who signed posters for all the children, was happy to play his part.

He said: "Every single one of the lads would happily come and get themselves involved because it's such an important issue.

"Football is worldwide, it's in every single country in the world, so it's an easy way to get the point across.

"The age these kids are coming into this, the fact we're showing them as early as possible, will set them right for the future."

The kids were shown an anti-racism film featuring some of the best black players ever to play the game such as Thierry Henry and Didier Drogba.

Barnes hopes the day will live long in their memories.

"The more the issue of racism is raised, the more people will be aware of why it's wrong to be racist," he said.

"These children are the future leaders of this country and if they can grow up not having a prejudice against someone because of skin colour then the future looks bright. These children are the future captains of industry and if they can take their personalities and sensibilities into their adult lives, that's the way to eliminate racism.

"Football can be used to influence society - let us use that influence to do something positive."

The message was not lost on the kids themselves.

Ten-year old Harriet Hannon, from St Francis De Sales School, said: "I was excited today because I am a Liverpool fan.

"We're learning about racism and why we shouldn't do it to people. It's mean and just because someone is a different colour it doesn't mean you should skit them."

City council leader Joe Anderson and local MP Steve Rotheram were also in attendance.

Rotheram said: "This is the age you mould people, these are their formative years. If you get the message to them now, not matter what happens in their lives then hopefully they'll always be able to remember today at Anfield.

"It's all about education. Anyone who has ever played football will tell you that when you look around the dressing room, you want people who are the best at what they do - that's the way it should be, it shouldn't be based on colour. That translates to everyday life as well.

"Liverpool have been doing this for many, many years and it's quite right that LFC TV is promoting these events because they are so important."

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