Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling changing perceptions of race, says Ian Wright

Ian Wright marked Black History Months by making a short film with his grandson and son.
Ian Wright says that Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling have made a significant impact on how black footballers are perceived.

Sterling and Rashford, forwards from England, were awarded MBEs for their respective services to equality and children.

Wright was kind to them, but added that they cannot fight racism alone.

"It's people such as Marcus Rashford who changed the course for how people write about black athletes, and Raheem sterling - that's strength," stated the ex-Arsenal and England striker.

He told the Press Association that they are not only great footballers but also have a social conscience. They've built massive platforms so people can listen to them and that's what's happening today."

"And you will see that everyone comes together when this happens, and this is how things get better. Although things are not moving as fast as they should, they are still moving.

"Things only get better when white people are involved." We would continue to be racially abused if it were just black people. It is impossible to change it all alone.

Manchester United's Rashford is a campaigner to end child hunger in the UK. His work to provide free school meals for children during holidays in England and other support for low-income families has led to major changes in government policy.

Sterling, Manchester City, has spoken out about the racial abuses he has faced, both on and off the pitch. He also campaigned for racial equity.

Wright, Match of the Day pundit, is 57 and wants more black representation. He also points out the importance of "white allies" and cited Rangers boss Steven Gerrard as well as Burnley captain Ben Mee who both have spoken out against racism.

Wright stated, "We still need to have black people in certain offices to make changes - and that's not happening because otherwise we wouldn't be going though certain things that are going on now."

"But at the exact same time, Steven Gerrard, Ben Mee, and white allies who speak out and passionately about the injustices of racism, and inequality, is how things change and how they move.

"That's the way people change their feelings, that's what you do to make them think, your conscience."

Wright, his son Shaun Wright-Phillips (ex-Manchester City winger) and D'Margio (20, who plays for Stoke City), have produced a short film as part of Black History Month. It celebrates three generations of footballing excellence.

Wright said, "To have three generations of football players is incredible, it's amazing, I am very proud of that, and I'm extremely proud of them," Wright continued.

"But, (But) one thing I think about all of the time is its racism side. It's going to be three generations before we have it.