Manchester United youngster Jack Fletcher — son of former player Darren Fletcher — has been sanctioned by the Football Association (FA) for using an anti-gay slur during a match in October.
The incident occurred during United under-21s’ 5-2 defeat against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup, when the 18-year-old was heard by the referee directing the term “gay boy” at an opponent.
Fletcher was handed a six-game ban — two of which he already served following the red card he received in that game — and the remaining four (non-first team) suspended games were given for the FA’s ‘Aggravated Breach.’
The FA and Fletcher’s opponent both concluded that he had no intention to be anti-gay.
Manchester United confirmed the player has since apologised, and stated he did not intend to use the term as an anti-gay insult.
“I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment,” Fletcher said.
“Despite the fact that I had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult, I completely understand that such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game.”
The club stated that Fletcher will strengthen his understanding of discriminatory language and why it is harmful.
“In addition to his ongoing participation in regular academy programmes on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also take part in educational training through the FA,” a statement on their website read.
“Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club. Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.”
The teenager, who joined United in 2023 from Manchester City along with his twin brother Tyler, has made three appearances in the Premier League this season as a substitute and is considered one of the club’s brightest prospects.
A post on social media from Rainbow Devils, United’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ club, welcomed the player’s apology.
“We hope Jack learns from this and grows as a person and a player,” it said.
“His immediate regret and guilty plea suggests that he will.”
Additional reporting from ESPN’s Rob Dawson.
