Today’s Hot Topic is a question that is raised after every England senior International.

Why don’t all of the players sing the National Anthem?


Below is an example of the comments we have received:
  

Just one point, which I know many people have commented on, however is something that hasn’t been looked at, and properly discussed.

It is to do with the England national team players not singing the national anthem. A small point I know, yet if the best players in English football are to represent English football and the country itself, it seems only right that the players, regardless of their personal beliefs, should sing the national anthem before a game.

I am a footballer myself; yet notice that every single rugby player in the England team sings the anthem before a game.
P Stables

TheFA.com replies

Some players choose to demonstrate their pride of playing for England in different ways.

Whilst some players may choose to sing the national anthem as loud as possible, others may choose to use this time to focus on the game ahead.

We cannot force players to sing the national anthem prior to a match, but we can assure you that all those who are chosen to play for their country are proud to be representing their country.

Did you know...

Our national anthem, “God Save The Queen” (originally “God Save The King”), was composed by Thomas Augustine Arne in 1740.