Scotland to stop taking the knee in support of Kamara

Scotland men’s team will no longer take the knee and will instead ‘take a stand’ against racism in Thursday night’s World Cup qualifier.

Steve Clarke’s side will follow in the footsteps of several Premiership clubs by standing before kick-off against Austria.

Players across the country have been dropping to one knee since the start of the season as part of a bid to clampdown on racism in sport and society.

However, a number of players have recently decided to stand instead, arguing that taking the knee has become an “empty gesture”.

Scotland’s decision comes after Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara reported being racially abused by a Slavia Prague player in a Europa League tie last week.

The incident is being investigated by UEFA, however Slavia have denied racism and alleged to police that their player was assaulted.

Meanwhile, the Scottish FA announced that Livingston captain Marvin Bartley and Glasgow City’s former Scotland player Leanne Ross will join the governing body’s equality and diversity advisory board (EDAB).

Members will meet on Tuesday with the Kamara incident at the top of the agenda.

Scottish FA chief executive Ian Mawell said it proved a “lot of work” was still needed to stop racism.

He added: “After witnessing the scenes last Thursday, we contacted Rangers immediately through our equality team to offer our support and guidance through a range of services and we aim to continue that dialogue with any club directly affected by these issues.”

PFA Scotland, Show Racism the Red Card, Scottish Women in Sport and LEAP Sports will also be represented at Tuesday’s meeting.

Bartley said: “We have seen all too recently that racism still continues to be a major issue within football and further demonstrates the work that needs done to eradicate it from our game.

“I am eager to join Leanne Ross as an advisor to the Scottish FA, to provide thoughts from a player’s perspective on issues that are extremely close my heart.

“Recently we’ve witnessed every club in the country pull together and unite against racism and now it’s time for us to continue to make sure no individual is ever left to feel alone or ostracised.

“Rivalries based on the colour of shirt a player wears on a Saturday is healthy but rivalries based on their skin colour is not.

“Through my new role I’m really looking forward to helping the Scottish FA and EDAB in their equality and diversity aims.”