How many players that supported taking the knee are now taking the Saudi money?

I made a similar point on the previous page, but your rhetorical question is spot on.

Those supporting the gesture or saying "is it really such a big deal...just ignore it etc" completely miss the fact that the gesture is carried out by, and with the support of, the biggest load of hypocrites you could possibly come up with (i.e. carried out by footballers with the gushing support of commentators and pundits). None of them were prepared to make any sort of stand at either of the last two World Cups for the simple fact that to do so would have been detrimental to their playing or earning prospects. Now we have footballers proud to wear the armband and to take the knee in the safe and, let's face it, diverse and accepting environment that is England, yet unwilling to reject the filthy lucre on offer from the desert. Last week Southgate dutifully came up with a contorted and mealy-mouthed defence of Jordan Henderson's staggering volte face; basically saying that everyone else deals with the Saudis, so why shouldn't footballers? Principles? Don't make me laugh.

Berlin Olympic Stadium, 1936. England team line up before the game against Germany and all give the fascist salute on the orders of the FA.
But it's OK. It's "only 4 seconds". It "doesn't have any impact on the matchday experience." We should just "respect their right to do it."

Edited by palaceexile (09 Aug 2023 6.06pm)

Berlin Olympic Stadium, 1936. England team line up before the game against Germany and all give the fascist salute on the orders of the FA.
But it's OK. It's "only 4 seconds". It "doesn't have any impact on the matchday experience." We should just "respect their right to do it."

Edited by palaceexile (09 Aug 2023 6.06pm)

I don't give a toss about cheerleaders, mascots, kids taking penalties, random boxers/athletes lapping the pitch and a whole host of other things which you will find at football matches, but I also don't consider those things to be 'rammed down my throat' because they take place in the same venue I'm in.

If it's not for you, engage your attention in something else for a matter of seconds and it will all be over - it's not even close to accurate to suggest a silent protest which occupies about 10 seconds, before the game even starts, is being 'rammed down your throat' and to the detriment of people's enjoyment of the match.

If you oppose the protest, at least own your reasons and stop pretending it's anything to do with the matchday experience.