Manchester United midfielder Jack Fletcher has apologized for using a homophobic slur during a Virtu Trophy match after receiving a six-match ban.
Fletcher, 18, the son of former United midfielder and current manager Darren Fletcher, was sent off for the incident during the 5-2 win over Barnsley in October.
Fletcher was asked by the referee that he had directed homophobic language at his opponent.
In making the accusation, the FA said: “During the match, he is said to have behaved inappropriately and used abusive and insulting language, contrary to FA Regulation E3.1.”
“It is alleged that the breach of FA Regulation E3.1 was an ‘aggravated breach’ as defined in FA Regulation E3.2 because it contained a reference, either express or implied, to sexual orientation.”
At a hearing at the FA Regulation Committee on February 3, he was handed a six-match ban, fined £1,500 and ordered to complete an education order.
Jack Fletcher has been fined £1,500 and banned for six games by the FA after admitting using a homophobic slur towards an opponent.
Fletcher said, “I am truly sorry for the offensive words I used in the heat of the moment.”
“While I did not intend to use this word as a homophobic insult, I fully understand that such language is unacceptable and apologized immediately after the match.
“I want to be clear that this momentary loss of character is in no way reflective of my beliefs or values.”
United’s LGBTQ+ supporters club, the Rainbow Devils, issued a statement on social media welcoming Fletcher’s apology.
“I hope Jack learns from this and grows as a person and player,” it read.
“His immediate remorse and guilty plea suggest he will do so.”
United said in a statement: “Manchester United has worked with Jack to strengthen his understanding of discriminatory language and why it is harmful.
“In addition to his continued participation in regular academy programs on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also take part in educational training through the FA.
“Manchester United is proud to be an inclusive and welcoming club. Since launching Allred All Equal in 2016, we have built equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.”
