TROY DEENEY says footballers should continue taking the knee next season.
Watford captain and SunSport columnist Deeney is part of a Premier League advisory group discussing the issue.
Players have taken the knee to highlight the need for racial equality since football came out of lockdown last June.
And, as black players continue to be targeted on social media, Deeney urged his fellow pros to continue the practice.
He said: “It’s my personal belief that taking a knee has made a real difference — that it has highlighted the issue and provoked conversation.
“I think taking the knee in front of full houses will have even more of an impact.
“There need to be further talks about what happens if some supporters boo or show dissent in other ways.
“But in my view that would only add to the difficult and necessary conversations on racism continuing.
“A lot more discussions are needed between players, clubs and the leagues.
“I would like unity on this and I’d like us to continue reinforcing the key message of civil rights and equality.
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“People of colour simply want the same rights as everyone else.
“We’re not asking for reparation for what has happened in the past — just equality going forward.”
Deeney was one of 20 Premier League captains who agreed to start taking the knee before Project Restart.
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