Clubs will continue to take the knee before the start of Premier League games next season after the players decided they wanted to keep the equal rights protest going.
As first revealed by The Times, a meeting of club captains yesterday concluded with the players being “fully in favour” of players continuing to take the knee before the start of a match.
A statement from the captains read: “We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism.
“We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect and equal opportunities for all.”
Their message was supported by the Premier League’s chief executive Richard Masters, who added: ““The Premier League, our clubs, players and match officials have a long-standing commitment to tackle racism and all forms of discrimination.
“Following our club captains’ meeting, that collective commitment was reaffirmed and the Premier League will continue to support the players’ strong voice on this important issue.”
Although most players will continue to take the knee as a sign of solidarity in the fight against racism, players will not be made to do so should they wish not to.
Newly promoted Brentford, as well as Crystal Palace star, Wilfried Zaha, stopped doing so earlier this year, as they believed the action no longer had its required impact.
The report also adds that players and match officials will continue to wear a ‘No Room For Racism’ badge on their shirts, in an attempt to promote that important message.
