US: Major League Soccer player apologises for using homophobic slur
A Major League Soccer player in the US has apologised for using a homophobic slur against another player during a recent match, before being sent off for two separate incidents.
Alan Gordon of the San Jose Earthquakes used an anti-gay slur against Will Johnson of the Portland Timbers, during a recent game
In a statement, Gordon apologised for the slur, but said he would leave it up to the league to comment further.
He said: “I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who watched tonight’s match on NBC Sports Network. The language I used came during a heated moment and does not reflect my feelings toward the gay and lesbian community. I made a mistake and I accept full responsibility for my actions.”
“I think it’s probably better that I don’t comment on that,” he continued. “It’s a very sensitive matter. I’d prefer the league go through with their protocol.”
After being sent of in the 68th minute for elbowing another player in the face, a second yellow card for contact with another player, Gordon was escorted from the locker room by team personnel, and did not speak with reporters.
Major League Soccer, as standard, reviews the video of games which involve a red card. Normally such an incident would bring a three-match ban from MLS.
Following the incident, Johnson scored from a free kick just outside the penalty box.
