The Scotland national team will “take a stand” instead of taking the knee throughout Euro 2020 this summer.
The act of taking the knee became a pre-match routine before games in the UK after pandemic-enforced break. It served as a show of solidarity with those suffering racial discrimination.
Scotland to stand
Recently, we’ve seen England manager Gareth Southgate confirm that his players will continue to take the knee – even in the midst of boos from their own fans.
Now, a statement released by the Scotland FA has revealed that the Three Lions’ Group D rivals will not be following in their footsteps.
#FootballUnites against racism.
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) June 10, 2021
We will continue to take a stand against racism prior to kick-off for all of our UEFA #EURO2020 matches.https://t.co/rvYeibucf7
“The Scotland Men’s National Team will continue to take a stand against racism prior to kick-off for all UEFA EURO 2020 matches. The squad, coaching staff and backroom members will stand up to racism ahead of the Group D matches against Czech Republic, England and Croatia.” A statement read.
Andy Robertson, Scotland Men’s National Team captain said: “It is important we continue to tackle the issue of racism and raise awareness of the need to change people’s mindsets but also their behaviours.
“Prior to our World Cup qualifiers in March we spoke as a group and felt that taking a stand was the best way for us to show solidarity and also to reinforce the need for meaningful change in society.”
With Croatia and Czech Republic both noting that they wouldn’t insist on their squad taking the knee, it leaves England as the only team in the group who have confirmed plans to continue doing so.
Southgate recently penned a letter explaining his side’s decision: “Unfortunately for those people that engage in that kind of behaviour, I have some bad news. You’re on the losing side.
“It’s clear to me that we are heading for a much more tolerant and understanding society, and I know our lads will be a big part of that.
“It might not feel like it at times, but it’s true. The awareness around inequality and the discussions on race have gone to a different level in the last 12 months alone.
“I am confident that young kids of today will grow up baffled by old attitudes and ways of thinking.”
Featured image credit: Getty
