The Toolstation NCEL have released a statement following the news that the Premier League and the EFL have reaffirmed their support for players and staff members taking the knee prior to games in the 2021/22 season.

The EFL earlier this week described the gesture as a "simple act of protest against racism and inequality."

Our statement reads as follows: "The Toolstation Northern Counties East Football League applauds the decision taken by the Premier League and EFL to collectively support all players, managers and individuals who wish to take the knee ahead of matches this season.

"Taking the knee is an individual choice that many players wish to make as a way of peacefully demonstrating against racism, discrimination and injustice.

"Consequently, the Toolstation Northern Counties East League has no objection to players, match officials and technical area occupants taking the knee at their discretion.

"Home and away clubs that wish to do so must notify their opponents and match officials as part of the match confirmation process.

"And, if players from one club do wish to take a knee their opponents are under no obligation to do likewise."