Blackpool

Jake Daniels can inspire next generation of footballers to be whoever they are | Anita Asante

20-May-2022 07:00:43 | The Guardian

Young Blackpool forward’s decision to come out is going to help so many people and shows the conversation is shifting

I was emotional on Jake Daniels’ behalf when on Monday he became the first male professional footballer to come out publicly for 30 years in the UK. I was amazed it was happening; we have waited three decades for a player to feel he can be himself and tell his story in the way Jake has.

There are many openly gay players in the women’s game. We have worked hard to cultivate an environment where inclusion, acceptance and diversity is key to a thriving work and performance environment. If you want to get the best out of a person, regardless of their job, they need to be able to be their true selves. We actively – individually and collectively – work hard to create that culture.