NFL: Trump defends criticism of anthem protests

US President Donald Trump has defended his criticism of the NFL pros’ anthem protests.After his attacks – among other things, he had called for the immediate firing of players kneeling to the national anthem – led to protests before Sunday’s matches, he renewed his demand to respect the flag.This has nothing to do with racism.

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After almost the entire NFL, including most of the team owners, disappointed and/or angry at Trump’s criticism from many players and Commissioner Roger Goodell, the protest expanded before Sunday’s afternoon games.Many players knelt, or hung their arms under as a sign of solidarity.The Pittsburgh Steelers even stayed almost closed in the cabin.

Addressing the protest, Trump defended his statements to reporters before boarding the Air Force One in New Jersey on Sunday evening, saying,”It is very disrespectful of our country and flag, so I think the owners should do something about it,”he replied to the question of whether kneeling players should be dismissed.He had seen a bit of the early games:”There was extraordinary solidarity for our flag and our country.”

Trump had been criticized by, among others, his friend Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots,”That’s okay,”said the 71-year-old Robert Kraft,”He has his ideas and can do what he wants… But we have great people who represent our country, especially our soldiers or first responders[in the event of a disaster], and they should be treated with respect.” That’s not the case if you’re on the right track.

When asked if he was raising racial tension, Trump replied:”This has nothing to do with race.I’ve never connected that with race.It’s about respect for our country and respect for our flag.”