Ipswich Town have defended the decision of captain Sam Morsy not to wear the rainbow armband across Rainbow Laces weekend.
The 33-year-old was the only captain not to wear the armband for the initiative in partnership with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, which promotes equality, diversity and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Ipswich maintain Morsy’s decision not to wear the armband during Saturday’s defeat to Nottingham Forest was due to his religious beliefs, with all other 19 Premier League captains sporting the rainbow armband.
Capped by Egypt nine times, Morsy is a practising Muslim, and the Premier League club stated that they respect their midfielder’s decision.
An Ipswich spokesperson said: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone. We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.
“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 pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game.
“A range of further initiatives are planned around Tuesday’s home game with Crystal Palace, including a takeover of the stadium’s big screen in the moments prior to kick-off.
“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs. We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”
While Morsy opted against wearing the rainbow armband, Wolves midfielder Mario Lemina, a practicing Muslim, captained his side in the 4-2 defeat to Bournemouth.
Previously speaking about his faith, Morsy has contended with challenges to his nutrition during Ramadan mid-season.
“My faith gives me balance,” Morsy told the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) last year.
“I see a lot of times, especially with young players where you end up over consuming yourself and fear pops in. Faith gives you a way out of that in terms of seeing the bigger picture.”