David Beckham has been branded a hypocrite for declaring his support for gay footballer Jake Daniels, while still working with Qatar on their upcoming World Cup.
Jake Daniels became the first professional footballer in Europe since Justin Fashanu in the 80s to come out while still playing.
Daniels, 17, was praised throughout the world of football for breaking down stigmas still held in the game.
Beckham, 47, was one of many footballing legends to praise the young Blackpool forward.
David Beckham
Yui Mok
Speaking to the Evening Standard he said: "I played for 22 years, I saw a lot of racism and homophobia and do think it has changed. But there’s still a lot of work to be done."
He also said: "It’s a shame that when someone does come out that it’s such a strange thing. I’ve always felt that way about when someone does come out… it shouldn’t be.
Jake Daniels
Blackpool FC
"At the end of the day there will be a huge amount of gay people in sports and why should they be any different from anyone else."
While Beckham's gesture was appreciated by many, others pointed out his other working commitments.
An article in gay magazine Attitude questioned Beckham making this statement while still working on the Qatar World Cup.
According to reports, the former Manchester United superstar is earning around £150million for promoting tourism and culture in Qatar.
Qatari security officials have warned rainbow flags will be banned at the World Cup, due to the country's strict Islamic laws.
Chris Paouros from Kick It Out labelled Qatari attitudes on the LGBTQ+ community as concerning.
