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David Coote: Nigel Owens says he understands why referee hid sexuality

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“When you are struggling with your identity, it’s a very difficult and sometimes very dark place to be in,” Owens said.

“You will go to the extent of trying to deal with those demons and mental health issues in ways we’ve seen David Coote give examples of.”

He said things are much better than in the past, but added there was “still a lot of work to be done”.

“You go on social media today and look at some of the comments regarding David Coote coming out about his sexuality, it’ll still shows there are some horrendous, horrible people out there.

“People wonder why we are still talking about this, why people are still needing to live the lie. You just need to look at some of the comments on there which are totally unbelievable.”

He added that most football and rugby fans are “good people”.

“But there’ll be a minority in all sport that just are homophobic or won’t like you because of your identity.

“I’ve experienced that, but obviously in football the issue is much more serious.”

Owens comments come as police investigate “threats and abuse” directed at referee Michael Oliver following Arsenal’s game against Wolves on Saturday.


BBC News

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