There is probably one gay or bisexual player in each team – Troy Deeney

Watford captain Troy Deeney believes each team has one gay or a bisexual player. He said that the platform has opened up making it easier for players to come out. Many bisexual or gay players opt to remain silent about their state for the fear of backlash. This is different from women players where several lesbian or bisexual players have come out about their status.

The first player in EPL to speak about being gay was Thomas Hitzlsperger. The former Aston Villa player however spoke out only after retiring.
While speaking to BBC Deeney noted that: “I would go on record saying that there is probably one gay or bi person in every football team. They’re there, they are 100 percent there.

“I think people that are gay or from that community definitely are very worried about having to shoulder the responsibility of being the first. I think once the first comes out, there would be loads.

“If they came out and said it, I genuinely believe you would get, in the first week, at least 100 people that went ‘me too’. Just because they don’t want to be the face of it.

“I think there is now a bigger platform than ever to be a gay athlete of any nature.
“I also wonder why people finish football, rugby, whatever the sport it might be, and then go ‘I am gay’. I feel like it must be a real heavy load to carry throughout all your whole sporting career.”

Troy Deeney turned returned to action with Watford on Saturday as they prepared for the return of EPL. EPL is returning on the 17th of June after a long break due to coronavirus. The return will be marked by a massive showdown between Arsenal and Man City. During these last 9 games of the EPL teams will be allowed to use up to 5 substitutes.