Burnley captain Ben Mee says he was “ashamed” to see a ‘white lives matter’ banner flown over the Etihad Stadium last night. The incident occurred at the start of Burnley’s 5-0 drubbing by Manchester City, shortly after the players had taken a knee in support of Black Lives Matter.
Ben Mee ‘Ashamed’ By White Lives Matter Banner
What Happened?
Shortly after kick-off, a plane began circling the Etihad for several minutes with the words ‘White Liver Matter Burnley’ written on the banner trailing behind it.
A Lancashire-based man, believed to be the one who organised it, filmed the incident on a Facebook live-stream from outside the stadium.
Players could be seen shaking their heads in disgust as it came moments after they had taken a knee in support of Black Lives Matter – something that has happened at every match since the season restarted.
Premier League players have also been displaying Black Lives Matter on the back of their shirts in place of their own names.
Mee’s Emotional Interview
In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, captain Ben Mee was initially asked a question about the game but brought the incident up himself.
He said: “We have a group of lads in there who are embarrassed.
“These people need to come into the 21st century and educate themselves. They completely missed the point and don’t represent what we’re about. It’s a small minority of people.
“A small number have arranged this and I hope it doesn’t happen again. I’m ashamed and upset it’s associated with my club.
“Hopefully these people can be taught on what the Black Lives Matter is trying to achieve. We want equality in society, in football, everything.”
Burnley Swift in Response
The club, quite rightly, were quick to distance themselves from the banner, and released a statement shortly before half-time.
It read: “Burnley Football Club strongly condemns the actions of those responsible for the aircraft and offensive banner that flew over The Etihad Stadium on Monday evening.
“We wish to make it clear that those responsible are not welcome at Turf Moor.
“This, in no way, represents what Burnley Football Club stands for and we will work fully with the authorities to identify those responsible and issue lifetime bans.”
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