One subject that has divided football supporters across the country over the past couple of years has been the taking of the knee before kick off, whilst most if not all football supporters condone racism, it has been seen by some as counter productive to the cause.
Whilst it cannot be denied that there are some who do not agree with taking the knee for reasons not entirely in tune with the majority of the rest of the country, from my experience most who do not like the gesture do so not out of racist thoughts or feelings, but more from a point of view that they feel that they and indeed anyone should not be forced to do something just because they are told that it is right.
It comes from a sense of having the freedom to make your own decisions rather than having others push their views down your throat, from this perspective to some people taking the knee was a counter productive gesture, it made them against the gesture although they were firmly anti racist.
Now after a meeting of the Premier League captain's who have polled their own squads as to the viewpoint of the players in the squads, a fair percentage of whom are black, it has been decided that the gesture of taking the knee will cease as a part of each individual match.
The Premier League issued the following statement.
Ahead of the new season, Premier League club captains have reaffirmed their commitment to fighting racism and all forms of discrimination.
The players have decided to use specific moments during the upcoming campaign to take the knee, to amplify the message that racism has no place in football or society.
The Premier League supports the players’ decision and, alongside the clubs, will use these opportunities to elevate anti-racism messaging as part of the League’s No Room for Racism Action Plan.
Players will take the knee during the opening match round of the season, dedicated No Room for Racism match rounds in October and March, Boxing Day fixtures following the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Premier League matches on the final day of the season and The FA Cup and EFL Cup Finals.
The Premier League captains said:
"We have decided to select significant moments to take the knee during the season to highlight our unity against all forms of racism and in so doing we continue to show solidarity for a common cause. We remain resolutely committed to eradicate racial prejudice, and to bring about an inclusive society with respect and equal opportunities for all.”
A total of £238,000 will be donated to designated youth clubs on behalf of the Premier League captains after £119,000 was raised from the royalties of the ‘No Room For Racism’ sleeve badges sold on club shirts last season. The Premier League has matched the figure raised from the badges as part of the contribution to those clubs.