- Safiu Kehinde
Crystal Palace and England centre-back, Marc Guéhi, is likely to escape an English Football Association (FA) charge after writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured captain’s armband for Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle United.
The former Chelsea player had over the weekend sparked the controversy of LGBTQ influence of English football and players’ religious affiliation.
Palace and Guehi have, however, been reminded about their responsibilities that the appearance of a religious message on any item of clothing is prohibited as stated in Rule A4 of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations.
According to ESPN, the law stated that “for any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”
A modification was made to the law 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.”
Meanwhile, neither the 24-year-old or the club will face any formal action which could have resulted in a suspension or a fine.
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.
That Guéhi, a devout Christian, chose to write the religious slogan on an armband supporting LGBTQ+ issues could have been seen as an aggravating factor.
Football Association kit rules underline that “the appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of Clothing … Any political or religious message” is forbidden and “disciplinary action may be taken” for “any breach of these Regulations.”
Unlike Guehi, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, who is a practising Muslim, refused to wear the armband, making him the only skipper to wear the usual black version during the weekend.
The FA considers Morsy’s decision to be a matter for the club and the individual and did not contravene any kit regulations.
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town, in a statement, expressed their respect to the captain’s decision.
“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.
“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.” the club wrote.