The captains of two Premier League teams are in the spotlight for their choices as the competition celebrates LGBTQ+ inclusion in its campaign to promote equality and diversity.
Rainbow-colored captain armbands were issued to the 20 clubs for matches last weekend and the current midweek round.
Ipswich's Sam Morsy has been the only captain in action who didn't wear the rainbow armband, in games against Nottingham Forest on Saturday and Crystal Palace on Tuesday. Ipswich said after the Forest game that Morsy made the decision ''due to his religious beliefs.''
Morsy, a British-born Egypt midfielder, is a practicing Muslim.
Ipswich said it ''respect(s) the decision'' of Morsy but is ''committed to being a fully inclusive club."
''We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch," Ipswich said.
Palace captain Marc Guehi wore a rainbow armband bearing the words ''I love Jesus'' on it during the match against Newcastle on Saturday. A heart was used instead of the word ''love.''
The England defender, who is a devout Christian, and Palace were contacted by the Football Association reminding them that the appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, soccer boots or other equipment of any religious message is prohibited under Rule A4 of the governing body's regulations, Britain's PA news agency reported Tuesday.
