DERBY announce they will no longer take the knee in support of Black Lives Matter because more practical action is needed.
The club statement suggests the symbolic gesture of taking the knee is no longer enough, with striker Colin Kazim-Richards experiencing racial abuse on social media in late February.
Colin Kazim-Richards was subject to racial abuse after Derby vs Nottingham ForestCredit: PA:Press Association
The Rams reinforced their commitment to ending discrimation while offering support to clubs and players who still want to take the knee prior to kick-off.
The statement read: “Derby County’s players and staff have confirmed, unanimously, that they will no longer take a knee before matches,’ a statement read.
“This decision has been made after discussions as a group, including first-team players and senior staff members, in recent days.
“It has been decided, as a collective group, to no longer take a knee.
“This decision has been made because the symbolic gesture of taking a knee is not enough; more needs to be done and we are committed to playing an important role in this.”
The move follows in the footsteps of fellow Championship clubs Brentford, Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers, who have also stopped taking the knee.
QPR director of football Les Ferdinand was vocal in his opposition to the gesture, claiming it “would not bring change”.
Wayne Rooney and his staff and players are all supportive of the changeCredit: PA:Press Association
Derby manager Wayne Rooney is supportive of Derby’s decision and his staff and players share that stance.
The statement continued: “Derby County is proud to continue its work with many fantastic organisations and individuals, both nationally and in the local community, to strive for equality and diversity in not just football but society.
“We will support the fight against all forms of discrimination by delivering the unified message of standing together as one.
“No longer taking a knee does not change the club’s stance on all forms of discrimination. It will not be tolerated at Derby County; this is categorically clear.
“The club will, wholeheartedly, support players and staff at other clubs that still want to take a knee before games involving Derby County. We are all in this together.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
