THE Premier League have confirmed players will have “Black Lives Matter” on the back of their shirt instead of their names when the season restarts.
It will be in effect for the opening 12 games of the restart, and when names return a BLM logo will feature on shirts for the rest of the season along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.
Premier League players will have ‘Black Lives Matter’ on the back of their shirt instead of their names when the season restarts
A statement from players at all 20 clubs read: “We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed.
“This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether.”
The Premier League will return on June 17 after every top-flight club approved the proposed matchday protocol.
And it is for that first round of fixtures, starting with Aston Villa vs Sheffield United and Manchester City vs Arsenal, that will have the kits proudly modified.
Players from across the league have already shown their support for the Black Lives Matter movement, kneeling during training sessions and even before games – such as Arsenal before their 3-2 loss at home to Brentford.
Premier League chiefs will also consult with leading players before confirming their Black Lives Matters stance.
They have already supported stars who decide to “take a knee” before or during matches.
Despite expectations a firm position would be agreed, club bosses agreed to leave detailed discussions to the league executive.
The club chiefs, meeting virtually for the 12th time since the Premier League was shut down in March, signalled their determination to show strong support for the worldwide campaign.
But it was felt it was vital clubs ensured their next steps met the wishes and message the players, who represent the public face of the league to millions of fans around the globe, want to send.
There are concerns any show of support for the movement would be pointless unless the league’s action has already been backed by the players.
League chiefs spoke to representatives of the players at all 20 clubs, seeking their input and observations about potential measures.
These are understood to include a clear statement of the League’s support for the campaign as part of a pre-match collective kneel, plus prominently messaging inside stadiums.
Hector Bellerin talks to Deandre Yedlin about the Black Lives Matter movement
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
