Manchester United midfielder Jack Fletcher has apologised for using a homophobic slur and will serve a six-match ban as a result.
The 18-year-old England Under-19 international, son of United legend Darren Fletcher, was sent off in the 62nd minute of a 5-2 EFL Trophy defeat by Barnsley in October. At the time, the reason for the red card was unclear.
The Football Association (FA) has now confirmed that Fletcher called an opponent “gay boy” during the game.
“I am truly sorry for the offensive word I used in the heat of the moment,” Fletcher said. “I completely understand such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game. This momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values. I had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult.”
The FA disciplinary commission accepted Fletcher’s explanation but deemed a six-match ban appropriate. Fletcher and Manchester United have accepted the sanction. In addition, he has been fined £1,500 and must attend a mandatory face-to-face education programme or face further suspension.
The FA noted that Fletcher made the comment in response to an opponent who had directed remarks at him and his family during the match. Fletcher had also been fouled and had his Achilles stamped on by the same player.
United confirmed they have been working with Fletcher to improve his understanding of discriminatory language and its impact. He will continue to participate in the club’s diversity programmes alongside the FA-mandated training.
The club’s official LGBTQ+ fan group, Rainbow Devils, welcomed Fletcher’s apology, emphasising that “homophobic language has no place in football or society regardless of intention or connotation. Words matter and words hurt.”
