Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy did not wear a rainbow armband during Saturday’s Premier League defeat to Nottingham Forest due to “religious beliefs”, his club said.
Premier League clubs are showing their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces charity campaign between 29 November and 5 December.
However, Egyptian international Morsy, 33, opted not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband in the 1-0 defeat to Forest, and Ipswich will also host Crystal Palace during Tuesday’s campaign.
Ipswich reiterated their commitment to “being a fully inclusive and welcoming club” but added that they respect midfielder Morsy’s decision.
“We are proud to support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance,” Ipswich said in a statement on Monday.
“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first teams visited our Foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint solidarity and inclusion pledge alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of the match on Saturday.
“A number of additional initiatives are planned around Tuesday’s home game against Crystal Palace, including taking over the stadium’s big screen in the moments before kick-off.
“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsi, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband due to his religious beliefs.”
