Manchester United youngster Jack Fletcher has apologised for using homophobic language following a suspension from the Football Association.
Jack Fletcher, 18, is one of the latest Manchester United academy graduates, after making three Premier League appearances this season.
The son of club legend Darren Fletcher, Jack and his twin, Tyler, have both been tipped for big things in the future as they continue to develop in United’s academy.
Jack Fletcher has not been regularly playing for the youth teams recently, but the reason for that has now come to light.
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Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Fulham at Old Trafford on February 1, 2026
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Jack Fletcher at Old Trafford
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Six-match suspension for Jack Fletcher
Fletcher hasn’t played a match since he was shown a straight red card when playing for United’s U21s in the EFL Trophy back in October.
It has now emerged that Fletcher was sent off for using insulting language towards a Barnsley player in the second half.
A statement from the FA says Fletcher was alleged to have committed an “aggravated breach” of Rule E3.1, using “abusive and/or insulting words” which included a reference to “sexual orientation”, as cited by Simon Stone.
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Fletcher accepted an FA charge for using insulting language and has already served three of his four (non-first team) game suspension.
In response to the punishment, Fletcher took responsibility and apologised, saying (via ManUtd.com): “I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment.
“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.
“I want to be clear that this momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values.”
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Breakdown of Jack Fletcher’s six-match ban
Fletcher initially served a two-match suspension for the red card he picked up against Barnsley in October.
On top of that, Fletcher had a four-game suspension for the ‘aggravated breach’.
The final game of the suspension is on Friday when United’s U21s take on Birmingham in Premier League 2.
Fletcher will be aiming to make his return to the U21 set-up when United host Southampton.
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