Guehi in trouble for loving Jesus.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has defied the FA by writing a message on the Rainbow captain’s armband for a second time. Captains were asked to wear rainbow armbands in a show of support for the LGBTQ+ community. He did so against Newcastle on Saturday – but added the words I love Jesus.
The defender, a devout Christian, was spoken to by the FA, who reminded him that displaying any religious message on a player’s kit is prohibited.
But on Tuesday night, away against Ipswich, Guehi wrote on the armband again but changed the words to “Jesus loves you” with a smiley face.
The 24-year-old was one of 19 top flight captains who wore the armband in the weekend fixtures to support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign in support of LGBTQ+ rights. Ipswich’s Sam Morsy was the only club captain to snub the armband altogether due to “religious beliefs”.
The Ipswich skipper did so again in the game against Crystal Palace. Guehi – whose father is a minister – risked facing action by writing the religious message on his arm against Newcastle.
The Laws of the Game allow slogans “promoting the game of football, respect and integrity”. The Laws forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images”.
FA disciplinary beaks opted to speak with Guehi and Palace rather than going any further.
Both Guehi and his club were told that the appearance of any religious message on kits, boots or any other equipment – including the armband – is prohibited under FA Rule A4.
The FA declined to comment when approached over any further repercussions following Tuesday night’s repeat offence.
“He’s a great guy, very humble and we shouldn’t make it bigger than it is. Keep it calm.
“He’s very respectful to everyone in the club.
“In football we’re all against discrimination, against abuse, every single part. It was a great campaign and I think that’s it.
