(Reuters) - Colin Kaepernick, who has caused controversy by kneeling during the U.S. national anthem, has been named the starting quarterback for the National Football League's San Francisco 49ers, the team said on Tuesday. Kaepernick, whose protest against injustice and police brutality has been defended by U.S. President Barack Obama and since spread to other players and sports, will take over for a 49ers team that is 1-4 after losing four consecutive games. "I think people are realizing the injustices and the oppression that's taking place in this country and it’s something that needs to be addressed." Kaepernick, 28, told a news conference after being named the team's starter.
