The Premier League have announced that player names on the back of kits will be replaced by the phrase 'Black Lives Matter' for the first 12 matches after the season resumes next week.
There had been rumours that this would be the case, with the news confirmed this evening. After the first 12 games, the kits of all 20 Premier League teams will sport a 'Black Lives Matter' logo and a badge thanking the NHS for the remainder of the season.
In a joint statement released from players on the Premier League website, it was also announced that the league would supports any players who chose to 'take a knee' before or during matches.
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 stands alongside players, clubs, the FA, EFL, PFA, LMA, PGMOL and all those who oppose discrimination
The #PL will support players who ‘take a knee’ before or during matches
There is #NoRoomForRacism, anywhere.
Full Statement: https://t.co/fdShPIq2ID pic.twitter.com/A661OWzyrx— Premier League (@premierleague) June 12, 2020
A number of players have already tweeted their support for the decision.
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. #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether pic.twitter.com/L71ClJt5Se
— John Egan (@JohnEgan92) June 12, 2020
#BlackLivesMatter #PlayersTogether pic.twitter.com/aFXNw9eIVF
— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) June 12, 2020
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. #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether pic.twitter.com/k86SSgL7QX
— Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) June 12, 2020
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. pic.twitter.com/3XwZY5DnfY
— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) June 12, 2020
The first game where the phrase will be used on the back of shirts will be the meeting between Aston Villa and Sheffield United on Wednesday evening.
