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Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy did not wear a rainbow armband during Saturday’s Premier League loss at Nottingham Forest because of “religious beliefs”, his club have said.<\/b><\/p>\n
Premier League clubs are showing their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign between 29 November and 5 December.<\/p>\n
However, Egypt international Morsy, 33, chose not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband in the 1-0 loss at Forest – and Ipswich also host Crystal Palace during the campaign on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Ipswich reiterated their commitment to “being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone” but added they respect the decision of midfielder Morsy.<\/p>\n
“We proudly support the Premier League\u2019s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance,” Ipswich said in a statement on Monday.<\/p>\n
“During this year’ campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our Foundation\u2019s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game. <\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n