A modification was made to the Laws of the Game last summer to make it clear that all captains “must wear an armband which is simple and conforms to the requirements of Law 4 relating to slogans, statements, images and advertising.”
The rainbow-coloured armbands, which feature the branding of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of the LGBTQ+ community, were issued to all 20 Premier League clubs ahead of last weekend’s matches.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner played down Guéhi’s actions in his post-match interview with Amazon Prime Video on Tuesday.
“Everyone now is about integration, no discrimination and Marc as well,” Glasner said. “We spoke about it. He’s no child, he’s an adult, he has his opinion and we respect it.”
That Guéhi, a devout Christian, chose to write the religious slogan on an armband supporting LGBTQ+ issues could been seen as an aggravating factor.
A Stonewall spokesperson told the BBC: “It has been incredible to see so many football teams at all levels support our campaign to make sport safer and more inclusive for all.
“When we see clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch. It is up to individuals to choose if and how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”
Ipswich midfielder Sam Morsy, who is a practicing Muslim, was the only captain to refuse to wear the armband last weekend. He again wore the usual black version for the clash with Palace.
The FA considers Morsy’s decision to be a matter for the club and the individual and does not contravene any kit regulations.
