Apparently a load of footballers have come out and defended Big Ron and his comment. I know that doesn't emcompass all black people, but it is interesting nonetheless. Didn't get Desailly's thoughts on it though.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2004182772,00.html
It does seem like, despite the comment, he really gets people's respect. Bearing that in mind, he must be one hell of a bloke in that case.