Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy chose not to wear a rainbow armband during Saturday’s defeat to Nottingham Forest due to his religious beliefs.
The 33-year-old midfielder was the only captain in the Premier League not wearing a rainbow armband across Rainbow Laces weekend, an initiative run by the English top flight in partnership with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall to promote equality, diversity and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Morsy, capped by Egypt nine times, is a practising Muslim, and Ipswich said they respected their midfielder’s decision.
An Ipswich spokesperson said: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone. We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.
“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of Saturday’s game.
“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.
“At the same time, we respect the…
