Marc Guehi and his club Crystal Palace have been given a formal reminder of the Football Association’s rules after the England defender wore a rainbow armband with ‘I love Jesus’ written on it at the weekend.
The 24-year-old, who has spoken in the past about his devout religious beliefs, wore the adapted armband in Saturday’s Premier League match at home to Newcastle.
The PA news agency understands Guehi and Palace have now been contacted by the FA reminding them that the appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, football boots or other equipment, of any religious message is prohibited under Rule A4 of the governing body’s regulations.
The FA declined to comment on whether any repeat by Guehi could lead to a charge. The armbands are being worn as part of the Premier League’s ‘Rainbow Laces’ campaign which runs from November 29 to December 5 to show support for people in the LGBTQ+ community across football and beyond.
It is understood there will be no FA action in regard to Ipswich skipper Sam Morsy.
His club issued a statement on Monday saying he chose not to wear the armband due to his religious beliefs.
The FA is understood to deem that as a matter for Morsy and his club, and would not amount to any breach of its regulations.
Rule A4 in full states: “The appearance on, or incorporation in, any item of clothing, football boots or other equipment of any distasteful, threatening, abusive, indecent, insulting, discriminatory or otherwise ethically or morally offensive message, or any political or religious message, is prohibited. The advertising of tobacco products is prohibited.”
Crystal Palace have been contacted for comment.
A spokesperson for the Stonewall charity, the Premier League’s partner in the Rainbow Laces campaign, said: “It has been incredible to see so many football teams at all levels support our campaign to make sport safer and more inclusive for all.
“When we see clubs show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, it helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch.
“It is up to individuals to choose if and how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”
