Kent footballer alleges player hurled homophobic abuse during game

A semi-professional footballer who recently came out as bisexual has alleged he received homophobic abuse from another player during a match.

Sheppey United player Jahmal Howlett-Mundle tweeted it was a "real shame" following the game on Saturday.

In a statement, Sheppey United FC said it strongly condemned homophobic abuse and "fully supported" its defender.

In a direct response, Tower Hamlets FC asked for the player's shirt number and promised to investigate.

Speaking to BBC South East Today, the player said: "I kept my cool as best as possible but it was really difficult holding in the tears while still trying to complete the game."

The team secured a 4-1 win, progressing to the next round of the FA Cup.

'Very upset'

The footballer - also a full-time primary school teacher - took the decision to come out to his teammates in July as he felt it was "the right time to be honest with myself and my loved ones".

He said he hoped that by being open about his sexuality it would give others the confidence to follow suit.

At the time, Sheppey United's assistant manager, Marcel Nimani, called his defender "inspirational" and said the club fully supported him.

After Saturday's incident, the club said it was providing support to Jahmal who was "obviously very upset".

It strongly condemned homophobic abuse and said there was "no place for it in our game or society as a whole".

Jahmal said the support of his team-mates and club staff meant "so much more than the win, so much more than getting into the next round, which of course is massive."

Tower Hamlets FC promised to "take matters into our own hands".

It said: "As a club we want you to feel we do not tolerate this type of action and will take this very seriously."