Liverpool Milos Kerkez breaks silence after being listed as Ukraine enemy
On a rainy evening at Anfield, Milos Kerkez stood before a cluster of microphones, his face set as he prepared to answer the growing storm of criticism that had followed his inclusion on a Ukrainian blacklist.
Kerkez faces political backlash
The 22‑year‑old Hungarian international, born in Serbia, was involved in a scuffle during a UEFA Nations League match against Ukraine, stepping in when teammate Dominik Szoboszlai clashed with Victor Tsygankov. The incident sparked outrage in Ukraine, prompting the foreign minister to warn of possible threats to the defender.
Kerkez’s father then posted an Instagram story of the confrontation, set to the song “Russian Paradise”, which many interpreted as a reference to the war. Both father and son were added to Myrotvorets, a Ukrainian database that lists individuals deemed “enemies of Ukraine”.
In an interview with Hungarian outlet HVG, Kerkez said, “I, personally, have never supported and do not support any aggression in my life! I am not a person who considers anything that harms others acceptable! … all I did was defend our captain, my friend, and I would have done this even if any other country had been our opponent.”
Anita Orban, Hungary’s deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs, condemned the blacklisting, writing on social media that she “strongly condemns the stigmatisation, any form of blacklisting, and any potential threats directed at Hungarian citizens Milos Kerkez and Balazs Hidveghi.” She added that sport should be about performance, community and respect.
Calum’s rise through GiveMeSport
Having taken part in the GiveMeSport Academy in early 2023, Calum joined the team full‑time in June of the same year before moving into the role of editor shortly after.
This progression came after completing a Freelance Journalism course through the British College of Journalism. He has also produced news content for HITC Sport and Read Liverpool, creating a wide range of material for GMS, from news and opinion to lists and viral sport content.
Calum’s portfolio extends beyond football; he has covered Boxing, Tennis and Wrestling for GMS, demonstrating a broad sporting knowledge that underpins his editorial work.
After the Kerkez episode, both stories highlight how sport and politics can intersect, reminding fans that the game’s reach extends far beyond the pitch.