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...
7. Posh target Tigers veteran
Peterborough United are interested in signing Hull City's Richard Smallwood, who rejected the Tigers' offer of a 12-month extension to his contract. However, it is thought the 31-year-old is eager to remain in the north. (Hull Live) | Getty Images
8. Bournemouth to move for Boro midfielder
Middlesbrough midfielder Marcus Tavernier will reportedly have the chance to join Bournemouth this summer following their promotion to the Premier League. The 23-year-old has only a year remaining on his contract. (Sports Mole) | Getty Images