DBasia.news – Blackpool striker Jake Daniels has just revealed that he is gay. He became the first player in English football to take this bold step since Justin Fashanu, and the statement is also fully supported by several English teams to support diversity.
The 17-year-old player, who made his senior debut for the club earlier this May against Peterborough United in the Championship, is now joining a group of professional sportspeople who identify as LGBTQ+.
Daniels has followed in the footsteps of Adelaide United holding midfielder Josh Cavallo and Thetford Town manager Matt Morton, and has spoken of the support from his family and team-mates since he revealed his orientation.
“This season has been a fantastic season for me on the pitch,” the teenager wrote in an open statement on Blackpool’s official website. “But off the pitch I hide who I really am and who I really am. I know that my whole life, I have been gay, and now I feel ready to come out and be myself.
“It’s a step in the unknown to be one of the first footballers in this country to reveal his sexuality, but I have been inspired by Josh Cavallo, Matt Morton and athletes from other sports, such as Tom Daley, to have the courage and determination to push change.
“In reaching this point, I have had some of the best support and advice from my family, my club, my agent and Stonewall, who have all been very proactive in putting my interests and well-being first.
“I also told my youth team-mates here at Blackpool, and they too have accepted the news and supported my decision to open up and tell people. I hate it when I’ve been lying all my life and feel the need to to change, to fit in. I want to be my own role model by doing this.
“There are people out there in the same room as me who may feel uncomfortable revealing their sexuality. I just want to let them know that you don’t have to change who you are, or how you should be, just to fit in. You become you, and being happy, that’s the most important thing.”
Knowing the news, English Premier League clubs such as Manchester United gave their support, stating: “We are proud of you, Jake. You are an inspiration to us and many others.”
On a separate occasion, Newcastle United tweeted: “Football for everyone. Newcastle United and the entire football community are with you, Jake!”