Zenit’s incredible Hulk targets keepers and racists

MOSCOW: After facing down racism from the stands, Brazilian striker Hulk has seen his career at Zenit St Petersburg take off as his goalscoring exploits have led to an international recall back home.
Last season’s Russian Premier League top scorer was named Zenit’s player of the month for September and was called up by Brazil national team coach Dunga for the first time since the 2014 World Cup.
But the 29-year-old is known not only for his achievements on the pitch but also for his uncompromising struggle against the frequent racism that has marred the Russian game.
Hulk joined Zenit from Portuguese giants Porto in September 2012 in a deal worth a reported 60 million euros ($82 million).
The record breaking transfer in Russia raised eyebrows and made Hulk the focus for racist abuse from fans.
Within half a year of his arrival he was already slamming the racist and homophobic elements among Russian supporters.
“I think those people, those fans do not care about culture at all. I respect footballers of any skin colour and any sexual orientation,” he said in an interview with R-Sport news agency.
“Those fans who abuse people of a different colour or gays just do not think at all.”
Despite the criticism, the racism continued and in October 2014 Spartak Moscow were ordered to play a game behind closed doors after a section of fans targeted Hulk with monkey chants.