Marc Guehi displayed a “Jesus loves you” message on his rainbow captain’s armband during Crystal Palace’s match against Ipswich Town, despite a reminder from the Football Association (FA) that religious messages on kit are prohibited.
The rainbow armbands are part of the Premier League’s support for LGBTQ+ inclusion through the Stonewall charity’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
The FA had previously informed Guehi and Crystal Palace about the ban after he wore an armband with “I love Jesus” written on it during Palace’s draw against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy again chose not to wear a rainbow armband on Tuesday, as he had during the weekend, citing his religious beliefs—a decision supported by his club.
Following Crystal Palace’s 1-0 victory at Portman Road, manager Oliver Glasner called for “calm” regarding the situation.
“Everyone now is about integration, no discrimination and Marc as well,” Glasner told Amazon Prime.
“We all have the same opinion. We are in sports and in sports we are always against discrimination and any kind of abuse, and Marc as well.”
Glasner said he spoke to Guehi about the issue before the match, adding the England international is “not a child”.
“He has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion,” added Glasner.
“This is the quote of this campaign, it’s being tolerant and Marc is very tolerant so everything is fine.”
Guehi’s actions on Saturday risked a formal FA charge.
Rule A4 of the FA’s kit and advertising regulations prohibit the “appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, football boots or other equipment of any religious message”.
The Rainbow Laces support from Premier League club began on 29 November 29 and runs to 5 December.
A Stonewall spokesperson said on Tuesday: “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.”