Hundreds have gathered for an anti-racism demonstration outside the mural of Marcus Rashford.
The artwork in south Manchester was vandalised within hours of England’s crushing defeat against Italy in the Euros final on Sunday night.
But it has quickly become a symbol of love and solidarity after well-wishers covered it in paper hearts, England flags, flowers and poems.
Many left messages of support for the football star and teammates Bukayo Saka and Jordan Sancho, after they were subjected to an onslaught of racist abuse online after the trio missed penalties in the final moments of the game.
Street artist Akse P19 added the finishing touches to restore the black and white mural, which stands on the side of a cafe in Rashford’s home town Withington.
This evening, hundreds travelled from across Manchester – and as far as Birmingham – to show their solidarity and took the knee in a powerful moment in front of the artwork.
Many held placards displaying anti-racism messages and chanted ‘Black Lives Matter’ in unison, while others continued to add their personal messages to the wall.
Nahella Ashraf, of Manchester Stand Up To Racism who organised the demonstration, condemned Boris Johnson and Priti Patel for staying silent when fans booed the England squad when they took the knee at Wembley.
Ms Ashraf said: ‘Three Black footballers have been viciously racially attacked on social media, but let’s be very honest – are we surprised?
‘When the football team began taking the knee in solidarity, and against racism, they were booed, and what did Boris Johnson say? Not much. What did Priti Patel say?
‘It’s an absolute disgrace.’
Among the crowd were Rashford’s aunties and godmother, Carol Wright, Norma Morgan and Fay Banton, who said they were incredibly ‘proud’ of the Manchester United striker and furious at the racist abuse he and teammates received.
Ms Banton described the scene as ‘gorgeous’, telling The Guardian: ‘He [Rashford] would love it. At this point in time, he’s so low.’
More to follow…
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