Millwall football club was in the news over the weekend because of their fans and what those fans did before kick off against Derby County.
After not being allowed in the ground for over half of a year, the first interaction fans had with their players was booing them for taking a knee in support of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement.
Section of crowd at Millwall vs Derby game start booing as players take a knee in support of Black Lives Matter movement
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 5, 2020
Millwall released a statement after the events saying:
“The club has worked tirelessly in recent months to prepare for the return of supporters and what should have been a positive and exciting occasion was completely overshadowed, much to the immense disappointment and upset of those who have contributed to those efforts.”
Ahead of their match with QPR at The Den, Millwall have had to change their approach to appease fans, QPR released a statement.
“PLAYERS from Millwall and QPR will stand arm-in-arm with each other in a show of solidarity for football’s fight against discrimination ahead of kick-off at The Den on Tuesday night.”
“The two teams will hold aloft a banner to show their collective commitment towards ongoing efforts to rid the game of racism following discussions with Millwall, Kick It Out, Show Racism The Red Card, The PFA, The FA and The EFL.”
QPR also asked the Millwall fans to respect a portion of the Rangers’ players in their choice to kneel before the game.
“This gesture is being respected by Millwall, and the Lions have firmly asked all those in attendance to do likewise.”
Have the clubs done the right thing?