Tuesday 5 June 2018 17:49, UK
The Philadelphia Eagles will not visit the White House on Tuesday after President Donald Trump rescinded the team's invitation, citing several players on the team who planned not to attend.
A statement from the President released on Monday said: "The Philadelphia Eagles are unable to come to the White House with their full team to be celebrated tomorrow.
"They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country.
"The Eagles wanted to send a smaller delegation, but the 1,000 fans planning to attend the event deserve better. These fans are still invited to the White House to be part of a different type of ceremony, one that will honor our great country, pay tribute to the heroes who fight to protect it, and loudly and proudly play the National Anthem.
"I will be there at 3pm with the United States Marine Band and the United States Army Chorus to celebrate America."
Eagles head coach Doug Pederson confirmed in May that the team would accept an invitation to attend the White House to celebrate their Super Bowl LII championship, adding that it would be up to each player whether to attend.
"It's one of those things that, again, we're working through a ton of things, but at the same time we understand that it's an individual decision," Pederson said.
Several members of the championship Eagles squad, including safety Malcolm Jenkins, defensive end Chris Long and wide receiver Torrey Smith - now with the Carolina Panthers - have been vocal about their plans not to attend any White House visit due to their opposition of Trump and his policies.
Jenkins told reporters in May that he would travel to Washington with his teammates but not visit the White House.
After the White House announcement Monday, Smith tweeted, "So many lies. Here are some facts 1. Not many people were going to go 2. No one refused to go simply because Trump 'insists' folks stand for the anthem 3. The President continues to spread the false narrative that players are anti military."
The Eagles later released a statement in response to Trump's tweet, saying: "It has been incredibly thrilling to celebrate our first Super Bowl Championship.
"Watching the entire Eagles community come together has been an inspiration.
"We are truly grateful for all the support we have received and we are looking forward to continuing our preparations for the 2018 season."
The NFL Players Association have also released a statement expressing their disappointment at the Trump administration's decision.
"Our union is disappointed in the decision by the White House to disinvite the players from the Philadelphia Eagles from being recognized and celebrated by all Americans for their accomplishment.
"This decision by the White House has led to the cancellation of several player-led community service events for young people in the Washington DC area.
"NFL players love their country, support our troops, give back to their communities and strive to make America a better place."
