MP reveals three footballers are set to come out as gay

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Three football stars are in talks to come out as gay, an MP has claimed.

The top flight stars are in talks with the Football Association about revealing their sexuality, it was disclosed today.

SNP politician John Nicholson broke the news while speaking to the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee.

He said: “I understand there are three payers in talks with the FA about coming out, and they haven’t done so yet.”

FA boss Greg Clarke had previously said he didn’t the beautiful game was ready for a footballer to come out.

Mr Clarke caused outrage when he said: “I would be amazed if we haven’t got gay players in the Premiere League, and I am personally ashamed that they don’t feel safe to come out.”

Sports Minister Tracey Crouch used her appearance before the committee to criticise the FA chairman for his previous comments.

The minister said she found them “disappointing comments” and feared they would encourage a gay player to hide their sexuality.

Players were “clearly” scared about the reaction of going public, she warned, adding: “If you have got comments right at the top saying now is not the right time, no wonder in many respects that they remain scared.”