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Graham Taylor was told not to pick 'too many black players' by the Football Association during his spell as England manager, according to a new book about racism in sport.
Emy Onuora's 'Pitch Black' , which will launch on Friday, includes quotes from anti-racism campaigner Richie Moran, who quit football after suffering racist abuse in the 90s.
The ex-Birmingham City forward recalls a conversation he had with former Three Lions boss Taylor during an event at Watford's training ground around the turn of the millennium.
Moran explains: “Graham Taylor came up to me and said: ‘Look, I’m going to tell you something … I’m never going to admit it, I will be sued for libel.’
"He said: ‘When I was manager of England I was called in by two members of the FA, who I won’t name …’ I volunteered two names. He said: ‘I’m not prepared to say, but I was told in no uncertain terms not to pick too many black players for the national side.’”
Taylor has been made aware of the passage in the book and denied the allegations, insisting he was never given specific instructions regarding the selection of black players.
He told BBC Radio 5 live: "I have no memory of that conversation.
"I never had any problem in regards to team selection concerning black players from the FA.
"My record as regards the selection of black players at international and at club level is there for people to see. To have my name linked with that kind of thing is completely wrong."
Taylor managed England between 1990 and 1993 and there is no suggestion that he bowed to pressure from the unnamed FA members.
The FA have been notified and have chosen not to comment.
