Football Is Back... And Players Take A Stance On Racism

Football finally came home again with players and officials from the first games in 100 days taking the knee in support of the anti-racism movement.

- David Pilditch

The Premier League stars’ names were removed from their shirts and replaced with the words Black Lives Matter – highlighting the global response to the death of George Floyd in America.

There was also a minute’s silence for in recognition of those who have lost their lives to coronavirus.

Players took to the pitch with wearing heart-shaped badges on their kit in tribute to front line NHS staff.

Prince William was among millions of fans celebrating the moment that supporters around the country had been waiting three months for.

The Duke’s team, Aston Villa, got the action underway as they took on Sheffield United in the first game. It ended 0-0.

The games was followed by the clash between Manchester City and Arsenal.

Before the match, the Prince, who is president of the Football Association, tweeted: “So good to have football back, we have all missed it.

“Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work in making it happen.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden hailed the re-start of top-flight action as “an important milestone”.

He added: “There’s no doubt this is a hugely symbolic moment – an important step forward in our careful journey back towards normality.”