Ipswich Town have defended the decision of Sam Morsy not to wear a rainbow armband because of the captain's "religious beliefs".
Egyptian midfielder Sam Morsy decided against taking part in the Rainbow Laces campaign during his side's 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest on Saturday. It's understood the 33-year-old was the only one of the Premier League's 20 skippers not to have worn the LGBT+ armband, although the top-flight bosses say it's not compulsory and instead is down to the individual.
Now, Ipswich have released a statement explaining that Morsy's decision was down to religious reasons, with the player being practising Muslim, as the club underlined their own commitment to LGBT+ inclusion.
A club 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 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."