FORMER Germany striker Kevin Behrens has been accused of refusing to sign his autograph on a fan’s rainbow jersey promoting diversity.
It is alleged the Wolfsburg forward declined signing the jersey on a number of occasions, before he fired an X-rated comment at the supporter.
He allegedly said: “I won’t sign that kind of gay s***”.
The incident led to a meeting between Behrens and sporting director Sebastian Schindzielorz.
German outlet Bild understand Behrens then insisted he has “had no aversion to homosexuals”.
But his comments earned him a suspension by the Bundesliga club – who were quick to state his remarks “were not in line with [their] stance”.
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The jersey supporting diversity was introduced by Wolfsburg five years ago.
As reported by Sky Germany, Schindzierlorz said: “Homophobia has no place with us, Kevin is now home alone.”
A statement from Wolfsburg on the Behrens controversy read: “During an internal meeting, statements were made that were not in line with VfL Wolfsburg’s stance. The incident was immediately dealt with internally.
“VfL Wolfsburg stresses that it is aware of its social responsibility. The club and its employees stand for diversity and tolerance, and fundamental values such as respect, honesty and openness have always been firmly anchored in the club’s philosophy.”
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And Behrens said: “My spontaneous comments were absolutely not okay. I would like to apologise for that.
“The issue was clearly discussed internally and I ask for your understanding that I do not wish to comment further on it.”
Behrens, whose sole Germany cap came last year, has made three substitute appearances for Wolfsburg this season, totalling just 42 minutes.
He did not feature in his side’s 3-1 win over Bochum on Saturday.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
