Paul Canoville: The reluctant Chelsea pioneer who inspired the Blues' Black History Month collaboration with fashion designer Nicholas Daley

To say Paul Canoville has overcome adversity throughout his life is a grave understatement; Chelsea's first-ever black men's player, he was the target of abhorrent racist abuse from opposition supporters as well as his own from the very first moment he pulled on the blue shirt in 1981, saw his professional career curtailed by a serious knee injury at the age of just 24 and has since battled drug addiction, cancer and homelessness.

But though he self-admittedly only realised it himself later in life, Canoville - adoringly nicknamed 'King Canners' by the Chelsea faithful - is a pioneer and club legend, with his legacy visible in the strides forward English football has taken and the number of black British players gracing the Stamford Bridge turf in 2023.

To mark Black History Month, Chelsea have released a limited edition line in collaboration with London-based fashion designer Nicholas Daley, celebrating Canoville and his significant footprint on the club.

In Daley's unique, signature style, the Tied Together collection features a tracksuit jacket with tartan trim and King Canners crest, and 'Pride of London' scarf - drawing inspiration from the 1983-85 Chelsea home kit that became synonymous with Canoville.

"Fashion has the unique ability to tell powerful stories and connect us with our heritage," says Daley, who - like Canoville - is from a British-Caribbean background.

"I am honoured to pay homage to Paul Canoville through my designs. Canoville's legacy, marked by resilience and pioneering spirit, is a source of inspiration not only for me but for all who embrace this collection. Together, we celebrate diversity, culture, and the enduring impact of individuals who break barriers."

To mark the release of the Tied Together collection, Canoville spoke to GOAL about fashion, culture and progress.