Colin Kaepernick: NFL player backed by US veterans over national anthem protest

'I'd never try to shame someone with patriotism in order to silence their First amendment Right'

The NFL player who refused to stand for the national anthem as part of an ongoing protest has received widespread support from US veterans.

The hashtag #VeteransForKaepernick has been shared thousands of times after prominent figures condemned Colin Kaepernick for supposedly disrespecting American soldiers.

Kaepernick has said he will not “stand and show pride” for a country that oppresses people of colour, following a high-profile series of deaths at the hands of police.

The San Francisco 49ers player was booed by fans when he took to the field on Friday evening.

The 28-year-old, who is a vocal supporter of Black Lives Matter, told NFL media: "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way.

"There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”

Kaepernick has been attacked by former NFL players and US soldiers, including double amputee Noah Galloway.

He said on Hollywood Today Live: "You are being a jerk and not understanding what this country stands for."

NFL legend Jerry Rice joined in with the criticism.

But veterans have rallied to the player's defence on social media, many of them posting supportive messages alongside images of them in military uniform.

Some critics are so furious with Kaepernick's decision they chose to film themselves burning replica shirts.

The NFL has responded to the furore, saying players are "encouraged but not required" to stand during the National Anthem.

Kaepernick's coach Chip Kelly also supported his decision and said it was his "right as a citizen" to choose whether he stood.