The Premier League has announced that players will stop taking the knee before every match ahead of the new season.
The pre-match gesture was to support the Black Lives Matter movement, following the death of George Floyd in America back in May 2020. However, a decision has now been made after Premier League captains consulted their teammates.
The gesture will now only be seen before certain rounds of games, including Boxing Day games and cup finals. Players took the knee in the Community Shield clash between Liverpool and Manchester City last weekend.
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The reason behind the changes is due to captains and players believing that 'less is more' as they hope it will have a greater impact when the gesture is only done on certain occasions.
In a joint statement from the Premier League captains, it read: "We have decided to select significant moments to take the knee during the season to highlight our unity against all forms of racism and in so doing we continue to show solidarity for a common cause.
"We remain resolutely committed to eradicate racial prejudice, and to bring about an inclusive society with respect and equal opportunities for all."
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters added: "We met with the captains last week, they're still totally committed to the issue. For two years now taking the knee has become part of the pre-match ritual.
"The players fear it's losing power and momentum and we will see it take place in a different format. It's up to the players to decide themselves and we support them in whatever decision they make, as do the clubs."
Meanwhile, Championship clubs including Queens Park Rangers, Swansea City and Bristol City also announced they would be stopping the action.
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