Gary Lineker on Tom Daley announcement: ‘I hope gay footballers are encouraged’
By Nick Levine
Gary Lineker
has said that he hopes gay footballers are “encouraged” by Tom Daley’s decision to speak out about his sexuality.
The Match of the Day presenter wished Tom and his boyfriend “good luck” in their relationship.
He posted on Twitter: “Delighted that @TomDaley1994 is happy in his new relationship. Well done for sharing it. Good luck to them both.”
Lineker also took the opportunity to hit out at the “small minority” directing “homophobic bile” at the 19-year-old. He added: “They may be a small minority, but some of the homophobic bile on here is disgusting and pathetic. Grow up you morons!”
The former England football international said that Tom Daley‘s decision to come out could prove to be a turning point for gay footballers.
“Hope the gay footballers who may be contemplating ‘coming out’ are encouraged by the groundswell of good feeling towards @TomDaley1994,” he posted.
Tom revealed that he “couldn’t be happier” after meeting his boyfriend earlier this year, adding that he feels “so safe” in the relationship.
He took to Twitter earlier today to thank everyone for their “overwhelming” support, and retweeted a particularly amazing message from Attitude favourite Kylie Minogue.