Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi inscribed “Jesus loves you” on his rainbow-coloured Captain’s armband in their Premier League encounter against Ipswich Town on Tuesday despite a reminder from England’s Football Association over religious messages, Afrosport reports.
The rainbow armbands are being worn as Premier League clubs show support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign between 29 November and 5 December.
Guehi had earlier escaped being charged by the FA when he wrote “I love Jesus” on his rainbow armband during Palace’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United at Selhurst Park last weekend.
Following his side’s 1-0 victory at Portman Road, Palace manager Oliver Glasner asked for “calm” about the issue, confirming he had a talk with Guehi before their match at Portman Road.
“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.”
“He has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion.
“This is the quote of this campaign, it’s being tolerant and Marc is very tolerant so everything is fine.”
It is left to see the next step the FA will take against Guehi, who was informed on Tuesday that religious messaging on kit is banned.
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”.
Palace moved into 16th in the Premier League standings, and will be at home against Manchester City on Saturday.
