Chelsea will respect M.Alonso's decision to stop taking the knee, Tuchel says

Thomas Tuchel has said Chelsea have accepted Marcos Alonso's decision to stop taking the knee before matches after he explained the gesture has lost its impact.

Full back Alonso revealed he would instead choose to combat racism in a different way before matches, joining a handful of players who have also stopped kneeling.

And in his pre-match press conference, boss Tuchel explained that Alonso's choice has been respected, and insisted his defender is firmly against discrimination.

'It's not a discussion in the group but of course if a player takes a decision like this, we're not in a bubble,' Tuchel said.

'The most important thing for me is I know Marcos personally and trust 1000 per cent that he is committed against racism.

'There is no question about it. We are all against it.

'Marcos took his decision, and it's a decision we accept. He gave his reasons and from here, the discussion can end, or can go on in a productive way to do more.'

He then went on to add: 'Once you do a gesture, everybody does it, it becomes normal. Maybe it lowers the effect of it. If this is [Marcos'] point, I can see it.

'We can discuss. He is pretty aware of it. He's experienced and responsible enough. Being against racism should be normal.

'I understand that Marcos thinks there is more to do, this is right.

'We need to use the platform and possibilities we have together, performances together, by living by example.'

Before the start of the new season, top-flight players agreed to continue their stance, which began during Project Restart last year.

Alonso, however, will instead remaining standing before the first whistle, with Wilfried Zaha and Ivan Toney also adopting a different viewpoint.

Crystal Palace talisman Zaha has called the act 'degrading', while Brentford striker Toney said players were being 'used as puppets' when taking the knee.

'I am fully against racism and every type of discrimination,' Alonso said.

'I just prefer to put my finger to the badge where it says no to racism, like they do in other sports and football in other countries.

'Maybe it's losing a bit of strength the other way, so I just prefer to do it this way and to show I am fully supportive.'

Alonso also believes none of his team-mates at Chelsea have a problem with his decision, saying: 'We haven't talked about it. We are like a family.

'I have a very good relationship with everyone. If I have to speak to anyone I will say the same as I told you and I don't think there will be any problems.'