Football Black List: Former England player Kerry Davis honoured

Kerry Davis, who was the first black woman to play for England, will be celebrated at an annual ceremony highlighting the most influential black people in British football.

Davis, who won 82 England caps between 1982 and 1998, has been recognised for her achievements in women’s football.

“I’m very honoured, very humbled,” Davis said.

“It shines a light on the generation that I played with, because we’ve never really had a lot of recognition.”

The former Croydon, Liverpool and Napoli forward added: “In football [I encountered] casual racism more so, with people’s throwaway remarks. I ignored it. I wanted to play football, it was a passion.

“As you get older, you have more courage and if somebody says something in front of you then maybe [you can] explain to them why the language they’re using is disrespectful.”

Davis will receive the Keith Alexander Award and is being celebrated alongside a wide range of influential figures of Caribbean and African heritage.

“She is a pioneer and a leader,” said Football Black List founder Leon Mann.

“We feel she should be more visible to the next generation and celebrated by all those who love football.”

The annual Football Black List recognises the efforts of black figures working in various areas of the game.