The Mayor of London Speaks out in support of kneeling
People are still debating whether or not players should take the knee before the Euro 2020 games. Among its critics, the consensus is that politics should not be bought onto the football pitch. However, Sadiq Khan has spoken out in support of the gesture.
He spoke to Standard Sport about his feelings.
“It was an amazing tournament and not just because of the football but because it brought our nation together,”
“People like me [as an Asian man] were proud to be surrounded by the St George’s flag.
“And again I’m so proud as an Englishman to have an English team and manager taking the knee in solidarity with all those that face racism, including the players. You see the stuff that players like Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford go through.
#NewProfilePic #England 🏴 pic.twitter.com/n6m2LtsLi8
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) June 13, 2021
“There are children up and down the country watching our team… and for players to be booed is heartbreaking. I worry it gives succour to those with racist views.
“London is the most diverse city in the world and that’s demonstrated by this team. The manager has given his players a safe place to express themselves, it brings us all together and makes us more cohesive.”
