Premier League players confirm they will continue to take the knee before games this season in fight against racism

PREMIER LEAGUE players have confirmed they will continue to take the knee this season in their fight against racism.

The pre-game gesture was introduced in June 2020 as a response to the death of George Floyd in the USA.

League chiefs carried it on last season, although there has been a growing backlash from the likes of Wilfried Zaha who called it 'degrading'.

Prem new boys Brentford stopped taking a knee before games in 2020/21 because they felt the gesture no longer had the required impact.

But the Bees will now resume the practice when they kick of the new season against Arsenal on Friday 13.

QPR, Bournemouth, and Millwall are among the other clubs who have ended the practice but the EFL claimed players kneeling will retain their support in the upcoming campaign.

And Prem players have now released a statement confirming they will continue their support for the movement for racial equality in this way.

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

The decision has further been backed by League chiefs, with players and match officials wearing 'No Room For Racism' badges on their shirts.

The Premier League players said in a statement: "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."

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters 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.

"Racism in any form is unacceptable and No Room For Racism makes our zero-tolerance stance clear.

"The Premier League will continue to work with our clubs, players and football partners to bring about tangible change to remove inequality from our game."

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