More Than Three Lions On The Shirt

The AFS is not renowned for backing a break in tradition but that’s the case tonight when, for the first time in 133 years of international football, an England shirt will carry more than the famous three lions badge and manufacturer’s logo.The AFS is not renowned for backing a break in tradition but that’s the case tonight when, for the first time in 133 years of international football, an England shirt will carry more than the famous three lions badge and manufacturer’s logo.

The very good reason is that England and Holland are spreading the anti-racism message in their friendly at Villa Park this evening.

England will wear red shirts with a slogan on the front and the badge of the ‘Kick it Out’ campaign - the organisation that aims to rid football of racism - on the sleeves.

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson told the FA’s official web site: “This is a unique opportunity for fans and players to join together to speak out against racism. The players are always very proud to wear the England shirt but this time it will have even more meaning for them.

“The message is a simple one, but very important. The team and the fans will be saying ‘no to racism. It is a message that will be heard across football and around the world.”

The Dutch are making their own stand by foregoing their familiar orange strip and will be playing in a black and white kit.

A spokesman for the Koninklijke Nederlandse Voetbalbond (the Dutch FA) said: “It’s a big step for us to give up our national colours, but it’s something we feel strongly about and are prepared to do.

“We don’t feel we have a problem in Dutch football. Fans treat black and white players exactly the same but we have visited other countries where our black players have been abused, and there is obviously a problem.

“It’s something that should be highlighted and anything we can do to make sure racism is wiped out, we’re happy to go along with.”

Spectators attending the game are also being given the chance to participate as they will be asked to hold up cards with an anti-racism message during the national anthems.

Supporters can also buy black and white wristbands with funds going to ‘Stand Up Speak Up’ campaign. If you would like to add your support to the campaign, please click here.

To view a selection of England shirts over the years, please click on the Toffs logo below.