A new BBC documentary is to explore the impact that Muslim players are having on English football.
Twenty years ago there were no Muslims playing in the Premier League. Now there are nearly 40, enough for almost four football teams.
To mark the start of Ramadan, ‘The Muslim Premier League’ will explore what impact Muslim players are having on the game across England by speaking to star players and top managers.
Narrated by Colin Murray and featuring well-known faces including Demba Ba and Abou Diaby, it becomes clear that faith is still alive and kicking – on and off the pitch.
But how has a profession, with a reputation for nightclub brawls, boozing and excess, dealt with teetotal players who value prayer and fasting?
Managers and football commentators including Arsene Wenger, Sam Allardyce and Henry Winter explain how clubs have adapted to accommodate a diversity of faiths.
Fans also share what they really think of fasting – including what inspired 40,000 Newcastle supporters to start singing about Ramadan.
The programme follows Ali al Habsi as Wigan Athletic triumphs in the FA Cup, and discovers why a goal scored by Wigan is celebrated across the Middle East.
In recent weeks the political spotlight has once again been on the Muslim community.
When it comes to Islam, British society needs positive messages of integration now more than ever.
This programme goes beneath the stereotypes of football culture to see Premier League changing rooms as home to some of the most multicultural teams in Britain.
Could English football offer our society a surprising model for the future?
‘The Muslim Premier League’ airs before BBC One’s coverage of the Wimbledon men’s singles final on Sunday, July 7.
A repeat showing will be broadcast on the following evening at 11.35pm, also on BBC One.
The programme will also be made available on BBC iPlayer shortly after its transmission.
Sunday 7th July
The Muslin Premier League
12.20pm-12.50pm BBC One
Monday 8th July
The Muslin Premier League (rpt)
11.35pm-12.05am BBC One
