Gary Neville Removed Union Flag From Studio after Concerns Over Its Use
MANCHESTER, UK – Gary Neville has revealed he took down a Union flag displayed in his studio after becoming concerned it was being “used in a negative fashion” following a surge in divisive rhetoric. The former Manchester United defender and sky Sports pundit detailed the decision in a recent LinkedIn video, linking it to broader concerns about rising hate speech and the impact of Brexit on the UK.
Neville explained he initially put up the flag to celebrate the diversity of football, recalling his time playing with teammates from across the UK and the world. “We were a lovely team, united as one,” he said. Though, he became troubled by how the symbol was being interpreted and utilized online, particularly in relation to criticism of his outspoken views. He previously criticised Boris Johnson for “fuelling” racism and hatred while he was prime minister, following an incident of alleged racism at a Manchester Derby in December 2019.
The Sky Sports commentator further attributed a “devastating effect” to Brexit, arguing the “messaging” of division was becoming “extremely dangerous.” He called for a halt to the promotion and elevation of those spreading hate speech and abuse, advocating for a return to “a country of love, of peace, of harmony and become a team again.”
