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David Byrom

Why Newcastle players will have Black Lives Matter on their shirts against Sheffield United

Newcastle United's players' names will be replaced by a Black Lives Matter slogan for the first round of games back after the coronavirus suspension.

It is part of a Premier League initiative which sees all signs using the slogan in place of players' names in the first round of fixtures.

Black Lives Matter has gained global attention in the two weeks after George Floyd's death in the USA, with protests ongoing around the world.

Players from all 20 clubs have come together in support of the movement, with the Premier League agreeing for player names to be replaced for the opening round of fixtures - after it was previously agreed a Black Lives Matter logo would be placed on shirts next to one supporting the NHS and key workers.

Alongside this, players will also be supported if they decide to take a knee before or during games.

The move represents a more organised response to the movement than that of the Bundesliga, where players showed their support individually.

A statement from players of all 20 clubs said: "We, the players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of their colour or creed.

"This symbol is a sign of unity from all players, all staff, all clubs, all match officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether."

In a statement, the Premier League also confirmed that Black Lives Matter logos will feature on shirts for the remainder of the season.

It said: "The Premier League stands alongside players, clubs, The FA, EFL, PFA, LMA, PGMOL and all those who oppose discrimination in any form.

"The League supports the players’ wish to have their names replaced by Black Lives Matter on the back of their shirts for the first 12 matches of the restarted 2019/20 season.

"A Black Lives Matter logo will also feature on shirts for the remainder of the season, along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the COVID-19 crisis.

"In addition, the League will support players who take a knee before or during matches.

"The Premier League believes there is no room for racism, anywhere."

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