Leeds boss Daniel Farke makes feelings clear after player refused to take the knee before Burnley defeat

The German coach explained that Calvert-Lewin’s action — or lack of it — should not be misinterpreted, drawing a comparison with former Leeds winger Crysencio Summerville, who also chose not to kneel during his time at Elland Road.

“It’s up to the individual player,” Farke said, per the Daily Mail.

“We had this taking the knee for such a long time.

“I remember with Cree Summerville, who never took the knee, and one day I asked him and he said, ‘I’d rather stand up against racism,’ so everyone has their own ideas.

“You would have to ask Dominic. I wouldn’t interpret too much.”

Farke’s comments came after Calvert-Lewin, who joined Leeds on a free transfer following his departure from Everton in the summer, stood while every other player on the pitch took the knee ahead of kick-off at Turf Moor.

The gesture formed part of the Premier League’s No Room For Racism campaign, which runs from October 18 to 26, with all clubs reaffirming their support for diversity and inclusion.

The campaign, first launched in 2020, sees players and officials unite in a visible stand against discrimination.

Taking the knee was initially introduced that year, inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, and continued before every Premier League match for two seasons.

In 2022, the league decided after consultation with players to limit the gesture to designated match rounds such as No Room For Racism week, believing that doing so would preserve its impact.

At Turf Moor, a small number of boos were heard from sections of the crowd as both teams took the knee, though the act was also met with applause.

Burnley manager Scott Parker said he had not noticed the reaction, focusing instead on his side’s performance, which earned a much-needed win through goals from Lesley Ugochukwu and substitute Loum Tchaouna.

Ugochukwu opened the scoring in the 18th minute, arriving unmarked to convert Kyle Walker’s inviting cross.

Tchaouna, a summer signing from Lazio, sealed victory midway through the second half with a precise finish beyond Karl Darlow.

The result lifted Burnley’s spirits, while Leeds were left to reflect on a frustrating afternoon in which Calvert-Lewin struggled to make an impression.

Elsewhere, the response to the Premier League’s anti-racism gesture varied.

Light applause and a few jeers were reported at Sunderland’s match against Wolves, while crowds at Brighton, Fulham, and Manchester City largely observed in silence.

Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels was also seen standing as others knelt, though he appeared unaware that the gesture was taking place.

Debate over the effectiveness of taking the knee has resurfaced in recent months across both men’s and women’s football.

During the Women’s European Championship this summer, England’s Lionesses opted against kneeling before their semi-final against Italy after Jess Carter was subjected to online racist abuse, saying the gesture’s message was “no longer being heard.” Tottenham’s women’s side followed suit earlier this month, with captain Bethany England explaining: “I have spoken to my team-mates at length, and we agree that taking the knee no longer feels meaningful. We are still seeing prejudice and racism, and there is so much more that everyone should be doing.”