Is taking the knee, taking resect away from the badge?

Taking the knee in football games has become a part of the game after racial discrimination has soared on social media within the last few years. However, England fans booed Gareth Southgate’s team when they took the knee even though the England manager has come forward and said, ‘it’s not political.’

Sunday 13th June 2021, England kicked off against Croatia at Wembley. After previously being booed for taking the knee at the Riverside Stadium when England played their friendlies, there was a lot of question what was going to happen in this game. As all the players entered the football field, the time was about to arrive.

As the England players took the knee, the Croatian team stood around whilst the crowed booed but it was quickly drowned out by applause and cheer. However, this should not be happening. Angry fans have taken to social media to show their disgust and anger towards players taking the knee. Players are constantly stating that all they want is equality and to be accepted, but whilst fans are booing their own team for wanting justice that will sadly never happen.

But why are people booing? Surely fans and spectators want justice for their own team who have been subjected to racial discrimination. However, there is a huge stigma around this topic and the question is it possible to eradiate racism in football?

When the social media boycott happened in April there was a real sense of social disappointment and a reflection of why this is happening. For many it gave them time to reflect what they were putting on social media but for some worsened the abuse and made them want to do it more. Sadly, there is still a long way to go before racism is eradicated in not only football but everyday life. But by the players continuing to take the knee and fans applauding them, we are definitely on our way for a change in our game.