We DO want to keep taking the knee! Football players ‘overwhelmingly’ back sticking with the ‘act of solidarity’ despite fans’ booing after being quizzed by the PFA… who slam the EFL and clubs for a ‘lack of leadership’
- A PFA survey shown huge support from players to continue taking a knee
- The survey followed a series of incidents where fans booed the gesture
- Players ‘support continuing this act of solidarity despite any adverse responses
A survey carried out by the Professional Footballers’ Association has shown overwhelmingly support from players to continue taking a knee.
The questionnaire followed a series of incidents where fans booed the anti-racism gesture and aimed to find out how clubs, players and staff best wanted to spread the message of equality in the sport.
The results of the survey illustrated that players ‘support continuing this act of solidarity despite any adverse responses that may be received’.
A PFA survey has shown overwhelmingly support from players to continue taking a knee
Players ‘support continuing this act of solidarity despite any adverse responses
The gesture was booed by Millwall fans before their home Championship game against Derby on December 5, and in their next match against QPR, players stood arm in arm instead.
During the match, QPR players Ilias Chair and Bright Osayi-Samuel took the knee to celebrate a goal against Millwall.
A PFA statement said: ‘Throughout 2020, PFA members have demonstrated a strong understanding of the societal issues raised across the world and have used their platform to highlight the impact racism has on both individuals and wider communities.
‘The decision to take the knee before matches was initially made by Premier League captains during Project Restart, to show solidarity with Black people facing discrimination globally.
‘This powerful symbol of solidarity represents the players’ commitment to anti-racism and is not an endorsement of any political position. It is a peaceful act of unity that highlights a persistent and systemic issue.’
The PFA did take a swipe at the EFL for a ‘lack of leadership’ over the issue and explained that they had made it difficult for players across the three leagues.
‘While the Premier League has already committed to teams taking the knee for the duration of the season, players across the EFL have been left in a difficult position following a lack of leadership on the issue,’ the PFA statement continued.
‘The survey conducted by the PFA has shown overwhelming support for continuing to take a knee, and we hope this gives the EFL and the clubs involved the information needed to support the players.’
PFA slated EFL for ‘lack of leadership’ as the Premier League committed to gesture for a season