Ipswich defend Sam Morsy's refusal to wear Rainbow Laces armband | OneFootball

Ipswich Town have defended captain Sam Morsy's refusal to wear a rainbow captain's armband.

Last weekend saw the Premier League's Rainbow Laces campaign marked across all top-flight fixtures in efforts to promote inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.

But Egypt international Morsy did not join the commemorations during his side's defeat at Nottingham Forest due to his religious beliefs as a practicising Muslim.

“Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone," read a club spokesperson told the Daily Mirror.

"We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.

“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs.

"We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”

The Tractor Boys remain in the Premier League's relegation zone ahead of welcoming fellow strugglers Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

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