Survivors tackle racism with England's Euro 2012 stars

“Isn’t it terrible that in 2012, you are frightened to go to a country because you happen to be black? It’s a tragedy. I asked the FA why they allow it. If racist incidents happen, they should leave the competition. It’s only a game. So what?”

He had wanted the squad to appreciate what it was like to be a victim of racism. “I told them what hate and racism can do to people. You have to keep reminding these footballers that they are models. Youngsters will listen more to them than to me.”

Mr Shipper said “you could hear a pin drop” during the talk. “They were so interested. You could see tears in their eyes. I did no preparation, I spoke to them exactly the same way as I would to other young people. It affects everybody.”

The England squad will visit Auschwitz during their stay in Poland, signing its museum’s guest book before lighting a candle of remembrance on the train tracks at Birkenau.

Skipper Steven Gerrard said the meeting with survivors, organised by the Holocaust Educational Trust, had been “very moving and inspirational.

“To come and share their experience with us shows great bravery and character. As a footballer, you realise how lucky and privileged you are to lead the lives we are leading today. Theirs is a very interesting story and one that we’re privileged to hear.”

A DVD being produced for schools will incorporate the players’ visit and the survivors’ talk.