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Joe Donnohue

Leeds United star speaks out over Championship side's fan protest

Leeds United's Tyler Roberts has been vocal in his criticism of Millwall fans' decision to boo players taking a knee in support of Black Lives Matter.

The incident occurred during this weekend's game between the Lions and Derby County at Millwall's ground, and has sparked controversy throughout the sporting world.

Millwall have themselves released a statement, saying they are "dismayed" by the "events" which took place. It was an instance which marred what should have been an occasion to celebrate as the South London club welcomed back fans for the first time in nine months.

Leeds FFOTY 2020

Instead, a clip of the booing has reverberated around the footballing and sporting world.

Leeds United's Roberts captioned the video as "shameful" on his personal Instagram story, calling out the Championship club's 2,000 fans in attendance.

The 21-year-old is of Jamaican descent and was left frustrated by the incident, as many fellow professionals were by the scenes.

Millwall's own Mahlon Romeo revealed he was "hurt" by the fans' decision not to support the gesture of taking a knee, which has become synonymous with Black Lives Matter and the fight for equality.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post in October, Roberts opened up on the first time he had experienced racial abuse in the game ahead of a Wales U-17 match with Belarus.

“We stopped at a floor [in the hotel] and the Belarus players were there. I was the only black lad and we were having some football banter between the two teams and one of the players started making monkey noises. Their team laughed," the 21-year-old said.

It is clearly an issue Roberts feels strongly about and has made his feelings known regarding the latest race-related incident in English football.

“My family is very strong about it and passionate about Black Lives Matter and Black History Month.

"Now that I kind of have a bit of a platform where I can reach certain people, my mum and dad say if I can change one person’s mind or opinion - I have made the world a better place."

The Gloucester-born forward has made seven appearances for Leeds in all competitions this season, but is yet to find the back of the net.

This Friday could be a real opportunity to make his mark with United set to face West Ham at Elland Road.

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