Paul Canoville

ABOUT PAUL CANOVILLE

Became the first black member of Chelsea FC in 1981. His professional career spanned from 1981 to 1991, retiring after a season with Maidenhead United.

He made his debut for Chelsea when the team's fans included prominent neo-nazi and racist groups, who heaped abuse on him.

Though his contributions kept Chelsea from relegation to the Third Division, his performance was inconsistent, and his playing time was limited.

He reportedly had 11 children with 10 different women.

Like Lee Elder , the first black golfer to play in the Masters golf Tournament, he helped break color barriers in professional sports.