Olympic diver Tom Daley has heaped praise on Blackpool forward Jake Daniels after he came out as gay last week.
The 17-year-old became the first active male gay footballer in the UK since Justin Fashanu in 1990 and hailed Daley as one of his inspirations for revealing his sexuality.
Daley has since hailed the teenager for his bravery in an interview with American news website the Daily Beast.
He said: “It’s just incredible.
“I think about what it means for any queer young kids growing up thinking now, ‘maybe I do now have a space in football. Maybe I will get in. Maybe I will be welcomed.’
“It’s not just that the queer community has been so celebratory of it, but the fact of seeing people like Harry Kane speaking out about how amazing it is.
“Straight footballers at the top of the game are commending him and I think for visibility in the sport it’s just incredible. Jake and Josh (Cavallo) are paving the way.
“The fact that Jake came out is a really powerful message to send. It’s so incredibly brave it might encourage people to be brave and more people to come out, able to be themselves.”
Here are today’s rumours...
1. Rangers chase Millwall wonderkid
Rangers are said to be eyeing a move for Millwall youngster Zak Lovelace, with the forward yet to sign professional terms with the Championship club. The 16-year-old has already made four senior appearances for the Lions. (Daily Record)
2. Fulham open talks with Aston Villa defender
Fulham have reportedly opened talks to sign Aston Villa's Matt Targett, who has enjoyed a successful loan spell with Newcastle United this season. The Magpies are still considering signing the full-back permanently. (The Northern Echo)
3. Blades forward expected to leave
Sheffield United's Oliver Burke is expected to leave Bramall Lane this summer as he is not part of Paul Heckingbottom's plans. The 25-year-old only made three appearances in the Championship for United this season, before he was loaned out to Millwall. (Yorkshire Live)
4. League One duo express interest in Lilywhites star
Portsmouth and Ipswich Town are thought to be interested in signing Preston North End's Tom Bayliss on loan this summer. The 23-year-old has been put up for sale by the Lilywhites. (Lancashire Live)
5. Seasiders reject 'low offer' bid
Blackpool have reportedly rejected a bid from an unnamed Championship team for Daniel Grimshaw. The former Man City goalkeeper made 26 league appearances this season. (Football League World)
6. Everton keen on ex-Terriers loanee
Former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is reportedly keen on signing defender Levi Colwill, who enjoyed an impressive season on loan at Huddersfield Town from the Blues this season. (The Sun)