English Premier League footballers will have the names on the back of their shirts replaced with 'Black Lives Matter'

• English Premier League footballers will have their names on the back of their shirts replaced with "Black Lives Matter" for the final 12 matches of the season.
• A BLM logo will also feature on every jersey for the remainder of the campaign.
• "This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League," the Premier League said in a statement.
• The Premier League returns on Wednesday when Aston Villa host Sheffield United and Manchester City take on Arsenal.

English Premier League footballers will have the names on the back of their shirts replaced with "Black Lives Matter" for the opening 12 matches of the season.

A BLM logo will also feature on every jersey for the remainder of the campaign, as well as a heart shaped badge paying tribute to Britain's National Health Service.

"We, the players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed," the Premier League said in a statement.

"This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League."

Players have also been told they will be supported if they choose to "take a knee" before or during matches.

According to the BBC, Watford captain Troy Deeney and Leicester City's Wes Morgan were big drivers behind the gesture, and played key roles in discussions with league officials.

Alisha Hosannah, Deeney's girlfriend, was also responsible for designing the Black Lives Matter badge that will be used on the players' shirts.

The jerseys will first be on display when the Premier League returns on Wednesday after a three-month-long stoppage due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In the first game back, Aston Villa host Sheffield United at Villa Park, before Arsenal travel to Manchester City later the same evening.

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