Morsy did not wear rainbow armband because of âreligious beliefsâ
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Published
Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy did not wear a rainbow armband during Saturdayâs Premier League loss at Nottingham Forest because of âreligious beliefsâ, his club have said.
Premier League clubs are showing their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewallâs Rainbow Laces campaign between 29 November and 5 December.
However, Egypt international Morsy, 33, chose not to wear the rainbow captainâs armband in the 1-0 loss at Forest â and Ipswich also host Crystal Palace during the campaign on Tuesday.
Ipswich reiterated their commitment to âbeing a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyoneâ but added they respect the decision of midfielder Morsy.
âWe proudly support the Premier Leagueâs Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance,â Ipswich said in a statement on Monday.
âDuring this yearâ campaign, members of the clubâs menâs and womenâs first-teams visited our Foundationâs weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturdayâs game.
âA range of further initiatives are planned around Tuesdayâs home game with Crystal Palace, including a takeover of the stadiumâs big screen in the moments prior to kick-off.
âAt the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captainâs armband, due to his religious beliefs.â