Taoiseach 'very proud' of Irish players for taking the knee

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban subsequently defended home fans who booed the visiting players for their stance before kick-off in Budapest.

Republic of Ireland players stand for the national anthem at Szusza Ferenc Stadion in Budapest. Photo by Alex Nicodim/Sportsfile

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said he was 'very proud' of the Republic of Ireland players who opted to 'take the knee' before their international friendly against Hungary on Tuesday night.

The anti-racist statement has since become a prominent symbol in sport and during protests