Jack Fletcher of Manchester United issues apology for anti-gay remark following FA penalty
Manchester United’s young player Jack Fletcher, the son of former footballer Darren Fletcher, has faced disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) for using an anti-gay slur during a match in October.
The incident took place during the under-21s’ 5-2 loss to Barnsley in the Carabao Cup, where the 18-year-old was overheard by the referee using the term “gay boy” towards an opponent.
Fletcher received a six-match suspension, two of which he has already served due to the red card issued in that match, while the remaining four matches (not involving the first team) were imposed for the FA’s ‘Aggravated Breach.’
Both the FA and Fletcher’s opponent agreed that he did not intend to convey an anti-gay sentiment.
Manchester United confirmed that the player has since expressed remorse and clarified that he did not mean to use the term as a homophobic insult.
“I am genuinely sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment,” Fletcher stated.
“Although I did not intend for the term to be a homophobic insult, I fully recognize that such language is unacceptable and I apologized immediately after the game.”
The club indicated that Fletcher will enhance his understanding of discriminatory language and its detrimental effects.
“In addition to his ongoing involvement in regular academy programs focused on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also engage in educational training through the FA,” a statement on their website noted.
“Manchester United takes pride in being an inclusive and welcoming club. Since the launch of All Red All Equal in 2016, we have integrated equality, diversity, and inclusion into all aspects of our operations.”
The teenager, who joined United in 2023 from Manchester City alongside his twin brother Tyler, has made three substitute appearances in the Premier League this season and is regarded as one of the club’s most promising talents.
A message on social media from Rainbow Devils, the LGBTQ+ supporters’ club of United, acknowledged the player’s apology.
“We hope Jack learns from this experience and develops both personally and as a player,” it stated.
“His immediate remorse and acknowledgment of guilt indicate that he will.”
Additional reporting from ESPN’s Rob Dawson.
