CRYSTAL PALACE skipper Marc Guehi faces an FA charge for writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow armband.
England centre-half Guehi, 24, was one of 19 top-flight captains who wore the armband in the weekend fixtures to support the LGBTQ+ community, with Ipswich’s Sam Morsy declining to do so due to his beliefs.
But devout Christian Guehi wrote the religious message on the top of his armband – and that could land the defender with a ban.
The Laws of the Game allow slogans “promoting the game of football, respect and integrity”.
But the Laws also forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images”.
Breaching this requirement is a strict liability situation with the Laws adding: “For any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”
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Speaking previously about his religious beliefs, Guehi told The Athletic: “I’ve grown up loving God and when I have had the chance I still go to church with my family, and my faith is definitely a big part of my life.
“Faith is everything that I’m involved with, really; even in football, where I’m trying to be a role model and show God’s graciousness and God’s glory through my life.”
This is the 11th season of the Rainbow Laces initiative being incorporated into the Premier League campaign.
The potential Guehi charge comes after Ipswich skipper and Egypt international Morsy, who is a Muslim, refused to wear the rainbow armband against Nottingham Forest on Saturday due to religious reasons.
Ipswich released a statement on the matter, saying: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.
“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.
“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our Foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of the game.
“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.”
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