Ever since the tragic incident involving the death of George Floyd took place, the Premier League has been relentless in trying to spread awareness and curb racism. However, their most notable gesture of having players take a knee before kick-off could be on the verge of being scrapped.
That is according to the Football League, who have acknowledged the different measures taken by Millwall and QPR in the lower leagues to raise awareness.
An EFL spokesman told The Mail on Sunday: ‘The EFL welcomes the positive, proactive approach taken by Millwall and QPR players as both set of squads continue to raise awareness of inequality and discrimination facing society. We will continue to support the wishes of our clubs’ players either on an individual or collective basis.’
‘EFL players who have chosen to ‘take the knee’ before games or participate in similar types of initiatives are using their platform in front of millions across the world to make a statement about eradicating all types of prejudiced behaviour, encouraging attitudinal changes and creating unity.’
‘Players often receive widespread criticism and negativity for merely doing their jobs but here they are leading the way, trying to effect positive change and they should be applauded for taking a stand, showing solidarity and setting an example for others to follow. Football needs to support its players and we will.’
The recent incident in the Champions League involving Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris Saint-Germain has shown that racism is not completely out and that it still exists in the game.
Having the players get behind a banner, or be more illustrative in their support could go a long way in being particular and resolute about putting an end to racism in the sport, and in the world for good.
