Premier League: 'Black Lives Matter' to replace names on shirts
What's the story
Premier League will see players' names be replaced on the back of their shirts with 'Black Lives Matter' for the first 12 matches of the resumed 2019-20 season. Meanwhile, 'Black Lives Matter' logo will be on the shirts for the remainder of the season, along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are further details.
Support
EPL to support players who choose to 'take a knee'
The EPL will also support any player who chooses to 'take a knee' before or during matches. Recently, the Football Association (FA) assured players they would take a "common sense approach" to any displays of anti-racist or political gestures. Global protests have continued following the death of George Floyd last month. In the Bundesliga, several players displayed anti-racism messages in relation to Floyd's death.
Statement
Players release statement on eradicating racial prejudice
The players released a statement which 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."
Racism
Premier League showing utmost support
Several Premier League squads have already 'taken a knee' in training-ground images shared on social media sites. Anti-racism charity Kick It Out asked players to feel free regarding protests. The EPL stated: "The Premier League believes there is no room for racism, anywhere #NoRoomForRacism." Meanwhile, Arsenal wore 'Black Lives Matter' shirts ahead of the friendly match against Brentford.
George Floyd
The death of George Floyd has caused mayhem
Last month, officer Derek Chauvin pinned George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, to the ground and placed his knee on the latter's neck. Floyd was declared dead at a hospital, thereafter. The death of Floyd has sparked protests in cities across the United States. Peaceful protests began in the Twin Cities, which eventually spread to metropolitan areas of rural and urban America.
EPL restart
Premier League set to resume on June 17
Meanwhile, the Premier League is set to return on June 17 after the 20 clubs agreed to come back that week in last month's video conference. The official date proposed and agreed upon is June 20, however, the competition has to complete two games in hand on June 17. There are 92 fixtures still to play.