Premier League Players From All 20 Clubs Release Statement Supporting Black Lives Matter Movement

Premier League players from all 20 clubs have released a joint statement expressing their desire to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement during games once the league returns.

During the first round of fixtures, all player names on the back of shirts will be replaced by the words 'Black Lives Matter', while several players have insisted they are prepared to 'take a knee' to show their support.

Football will return on 17 June when Arsenal face Manchester City and Sheffield United meet Aston Villa to finish off gameweek 29, and like all ten fixtures in gameweek 30, those two games will also see the message written on shirts.

A statement on the league's official website 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 #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether."

Shows of support for the movement have been seen in the Bundesliga, with players like Jadon Sancho, Achraf Hakimi and Weston McKinnie taking the opportunity to stand side by side with activists.

"The Premier League stands alongside players, clubs, The FA, EFL, PFA, LMA, PGMOL and all those who oppose discrimination in any form," officials added.

"The League supports the players’ wish to have their names replaced by Black Lives Matter on the back of their shirts for the first 12 matches of the restarted 2019/20 season.

"A Black Lives Matter logo will also feature on shirts for the remainder of the season, along with a badge thanking the NHS for their work during the COVID-19 crisis. In addition, the League will support players who "take a knee" before or during matches.

"The Premier League believes there is no room for racism, anywhere #NoRoomForRacism".

For more from ​Tom Gott, follow him on ​Twitter!