Oliver Giroud explains the importance of taking a stand
Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Standard), Chelsea striker Oliver Giroud has opened up on his celebration after scoring the winner against Aston Villa.
The French striker dropped to one knee and pointed to the sky after giving his side the lead having trailed 1-0 just moments ago.
After the match, the 33-year-old revealed that as a white player, it is important that he takes a stand against racism.
“It was a tribute to George Floyd and Black Lives Matter.”
While the knee was in favour of the Black Lives Matter campaign, Giroud’s pointing to the sky has to do with him being a Christian. The Frenchman revealed that he believes that the world will do better if we don’t give in to hate.
“I want to stand for that kind of cause, racism, anti-Semitism, homophobia.”
As footballers, the players have the option of taking a stand either on social media or on the pitch. Doing it on such a platform, they ensure that the message reaches out to a wide audience.
Giroud confirmed that the players are 100% behind the cause. The players had earlier posted words and gestures of support prior to the restart.
With both sides including the officials taking a knee at kickoff, the Premier League has ensured that their stance on the matter is loud and clear.
This is not the first time that Giroud has celebrated in support of a cause. Back in 2014, Giroud, then an Arsenal player, scored against West Ham United.
He dedicated the goal to the fallen at Hillsborough in a gesture that cut across club rivalries. (h/t Independent)
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The Frenchman has his heart in the right place and is not afraid to stand for what he believes in. An excellent player on the pitch, Giroud is also an ace off it. A true hero to look up to.