Premier League players will wear the words “Black Lives Matter” on the back of their shirts in the opening round of fixtures upon next week’s restart.
The words will replace their surname in a display of unity by top-flight stars
The shirt tribute was proposed by a group of Premier League captains and Professional Footballers’ Association representatives following the series of Black Lives Matter protests which were triggered by the loss of George Floyd, an African American man who died when a white cop kneeled on his neck in Minneapolis last month.
A joint announcement was made by top-flight stars on Friday as the Premier League confirmed players will show their unity, insisting they stand against discrimination’.
It 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.” Virgil van Dijk✔@VirgilvDijk
#BlackLivesMatter #PlayersTogether
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The Premier League supported the players’ wishes, adding: “The Premier League stands alongside players, clubs, the FA, EFL, PFA, LMA, PGMOL and all those who oppose discrimination in any form.
“The League supports the players’ wish to have their names replaced by Black Lives Matter on the back of their shirts for the first 12 matches of the restarted 2019/20 season.
“A Black Lives Matter logo will also feature on shirts for the remainder of the season, along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the COVID-19 crisis.
“In addition, the League will support players who ‘take a knee’ before or during matches.
“The Premier League believes there is no room for racism, anywhere #NoRoomForRacism.”