Both Millwall and Colchester United will see an investigation launched by the Football Association as Millwall and Colchester United fans boo their players taking the knee prior to games in the Championship and League Two respectively.
Investigation Launched by the Football Association as Millwall and Colchester United Fans Boo Taking of the Knee
The booing overshadowed the games at Millwall’s Den and Colchester United’s JobServe Community Stadium. The incidents have been widely condemned and the Football Association have launched investigations into both incidents according to the Evening Standard.
The FA released the following statement on Monday 7th December:
“The FA can confirm that investigations are underway into crowd-related incidents at both The Den and JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday 5 December 2020.”
Both Clubs Have Until 10th December to Respond
The FA are are asking for witness accounts from both clubs over the incidents. They have given both clubs until December 10th to respond. Millwall have already issued an official statement condemning the incident prior to their game against Derby County whilst Colchester United owner Robbie Cowling was scathing in his response to the incident involving his clubs fans:
“Maybe those that booed on Saturday might now understand what this gesture means to our club and will at the very least remain silent during future games whilst the players continue to take the knee before each kick-off.
“Alternatively, they should just stay away from our club because anyone that still wants to boo now that I have explained the purpose and importance of the taking of the knee is not welcome at our club.
“I will be happy to refund anyone for the remaining value of their season permit if that is the reason they feel they can no longer attend our games.”
Booing by Millwall Fans ‘Not Racist’ According to Supporters Club
Millwall Supporters Club have issued their own statement stating that the booing was not racially, but politically motivated:
“We fervently believe that the motives of those behind the booing were not racist,” the statement said. “However, at a time of heightened awareness and with the country watching, the choice of those individuals was always going to damage their club and be perceived by the media as racist.”
The FA will take on board all comments and make a decision in due course. This could be a huge moment for football and the fight against all forms of discrimination.
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