Football

England head coach Gareth Southgate backs his players as controversy over kneeling grows

With England players’ decision to take the knee in their protest against racism before every match, a controversy has erupted in the country with multiple fans booing and jeering at the players.

Several fans voiced their opinion loudly in England’s match against Austria at Middlesbrough which took several players by surprise.

Manager Gareth Southgate, however, has come out in defence of his players and even called them role models. Last week, he also mentioned that his players will continue to take the knee before every match at Euro 2020.

“Our players are role models,” the England boss wrote in the Players’ Tribune. “And, beyond the confines of the pitch, we must recognise the impact they can have on society.

“We must give them the confidence to stand up for their teammates and the things that matter to them as people. I have never believed that we should just stick to football.”

The match against Austria was the first game where fans were allowed to watch The Three Lions in action ever since the pandemic began. However, it ended up being a bittersweet experience as a section of the crowd jeered the players taking the knee before the game.

Footballers in the Premier League have been practicing this custom of taking the knee in order to voice their protest against racial injustice ever since George Floyd was brutally killed by a police officer called Derek Chauvin in the United States last year.

There has been raging debate over the issue with many England politicians also expressing their displeasure. With England’s European Championship kicking off against Croatia on June 13, this has been an unhealthy distraction.

“It’s their duty to continue to interact with the public on matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice, while using the power of their voices to help put debates on the table, raise awareness and educate,” Southgate further added in his open letter addressed to England fans.

England’s three group matches will take place at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London where 22,000 fans will be allowed as part of UEFA’s plan to have fans in the stadiums back soon.

Southgate also revealed the message that he conveys to his players before every game which extends beyond football.
“There’s something I tell our players before every England game, and the reason that I repeat it is because I really believe it with all my heart,” he said.

“I tell them that when you go out there, in this shirt, you have the opportunity to produce moments that people will remember forever.

“You are a part of an experience that lasts in the collective consciousness of our country.”

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India’s Junior Men Clinch Bronze with Gritty 2-1 Win Over Australia in Four Nations Tournament

The Indian junior men’s hockey team wrapped up their campaign at the Four Nations Tournament… Read More

June 26, 2025

Suryakumar Yadav Undergoes Successful Sports Hernia Surgery, Eyes Return for Bangladesh Tour

India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in his… Read More

June 26, 2025

Golden Glove Winner Jaspreet Singh Joins Bengaluru FC in Key Summer Move

Bengaluru FC have taken a decisive step toward rebuilding their squad by signing goalkeeper Jaspreet… Read More

June 26, 2025

Ravi Shastri says opening Test loss against England is a tough pill to swallow for India

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes the opening Test loss against England is a… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says England batters’ approach made Jasprit Bumrah desperate for wickets in 2nd innings of 1st Test

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes England batters were able to find a way… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says Karun Nair will be disappointed with his opening Test performance against England

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes Karun Nair will be disappointed after he failed… Read More

June 26, 2025