LONDON – Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has said that he will no longer remain silent when hearing homophobic comments in dressing rooms or seeing them on social media, adding that he wants football to be a “safe and welcoming place”.

In an article published in The Players Tribune on Thursday, the Englishman said his commitment was driven by the desire to ensure that his brother, who is gay, can attend matches without fear of facing abuse or discrimination.

“Football is for everyone. If you disagree, maybe you’re the one who needs to shut up and look in the mirror,” the 25-year-old wrote.

“I want this game I love to be a safe and welcoming place for everyone. I want my brother, Ollie – or anyone of any sexuality, race or religion – to come to games without having to fear abuse.”

He also called his actor brother, Oliver, the “real superstar of the family”, hailing his bravery.

“My brother is gay, and he’s lived his life in an open and authentic way since he went off to school,” he said.

“I’m so proud to say he’s my brother. I haven’t talked about it before but, with everything going on in football right now, I thought it was important to mention.”

England’s Football Association (FA) had launched investigations into several alleged incidents of homophobic chanting last season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers were recently fined £100,000 (S$170,000) for homophobic chanting by a section of their supporters during a Premier League match against Chelsea.

A Fulham fan was also banned in July from attending matches for three years and fined over similar behaviour.

“Over the years, I’ve probably bit my tongue a few too many times whenever I hear homophobic comments or stupid things being said,” Ramsdale added.

“I think maybe my brother has done the same, thinking it would make my life easier. All that ends today. It’s not the easiest thing to be open like this, but there’s never a ‘right time’.”

Ramsdale, an England international, played all 38 Premier League matches for Arsenal last season and helped them finish as runners-up to Manchester City.

He recently signed a new long-term contract – although the Gunners have been linked with Brentford goalkeeper David Raya – and said he had many “football dreams” about winning trophies.

“And when we lift a trophy at the Emirates Stadium, I want my brother there with me,” he added. REUTERS, AFP