Robert Lewandowski and Poland gamers level to RESPECT badge whereas their followers boo England staff for taking the knee earlier than kick-off

Robert Lewandowski led his Poland facet in pointing to the RESPECT badges on their shirt sleeves whereas a few of their followers booed England for taking the knee on Wednesday.

An audible part of the Polish supporters booed and whistled because the Three Lions made their pre-match gesture.

Whereas the house staff didn’t be part of them in taking the knee, they opted to make use of the second to level to the RESPECT badge as a substitute.

talkSPORT commentator Jim Proudfoot narrated the second: “England gamers taking the knee. Boos from a number of the Polish supporters.

“And, as they do, Robert Lewandowksi simply pointed to the RESPECT badge that was on the facet of the sleeve of his shirt.

“A pleasant contact, making his level to the Polish supporters.”

Poland first began making this gesture forward of their first qualifier in opposition to England at Wembley again in March.

A press release from the Polish FA on the time learn: “The Polish Soccer Affiliation informs that the gamers of the Polish nationwide staff earlier than the match with England at Wembley took a impartial and apolitical place in direction of the “Black Lives Matter” initiative.

“On the identical time, we emphasise that each one Polish representatives are collectively and severally against any manifestations of racism and intolerance.

“In its statutory actions and duties, the PZPN has all the time been guided by openness, observance of the rules of equality, tolerance and equal rights in direction of all folks, no matter their place of residence, color of pores and skin, faith and political beliefs.

“To precise their objection, the Polish representatives, earlier than the primary whistle of the match with England, pointed to the “UEFA RESPECT” inscription on the left sleeve of the jersey, which refers back to the marketing campaign performed by the European federation in opposition to racism, xenophobia and intolerance.”

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