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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Jake Polden

Nemanja Matic explains why he doesn't wear a Remembrance Day poppy

Premier League players showed their support of The Royal British Legion's poppy appeal ahead of Remembrance Day this weekend.

Both Manchester United and Arsenal stars sported poppies on their shirts, which are to be actioned to raise funds for this year's appeal.

However, some fans on Twitter noticed that Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic wasn't wearing a poppy on his shirt.

Matic has previously explained why he doesn't wear a poppy on Instagram.

The Manchester United star wrote: "I recognise fully why people wear poppies, I totally respect everyone's right to do so and I have total sympathy for anyone who has lost loved ones due to conflict.

Nemanja Matic shields the ball from Thomas Partey (Getty Images)

"However, for me it is only a reminder of an attack that I felt personally as a young, frightened 12-year old boy living in Vrelo, as my country was devastated by the bombing of Serbia in 1999.

"Whilst I have done so previously, on reflection I now don't feel it is right for me to wear the poppy on my shirt.

Arsenal ran out 1-0 winners of Man United (PA)

"I do not want to undermine the poppy as a symbol of pride within Britain or offend anyone, however, we are all a product of our own upbringing and this is a personal choice for the reasons outlined.

"I hope everyone understands my reasons now that I have explained them and I can concentrate on helping the team in the games that lie ahead."

Will Man United finish in the top four this season? Have your say here.

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