Manchester United academy's Jack Fletcher hit with six‑match ban after using homophobic slur during match

Manchester United academy midfielder Jack Fletcher, son of former United stalwart Darren Fletcher, has been handed a six‑match suspension after admitting to using a homophobic slur during an EFL Trophy match against Barnsley earlier this season. 

The incident occurred in the 62nd minute of the October fixture, when Fletcher - who was shown a straight red card at the time - aimed the phrase “you’re a gay boy” at a Barnsley opponent. Referee Will Davis reported standing only a yard away when he heard the insult. The Football Association has now released the findings of its disciplinary hearing, explaining that the ban was imposed after Fletcher accepted the charge without dispute.

According to the FA’s published report, Fletcher stated that earlier in the second half he had been subjected to two separate off‑the‑ball fouls, including being thrown to the ground ahead of a Barnsley goal and later being stamped on the Achilles while play had stopped. Video evidence supported his claims of physical contact. 

Fletcher told the panel he had attempted to remain composed, but tensions escalated after Barnsley scored their third goal, prompting the unnamed opponent to make remarks about his father Darren Fletcher and twin brother Tyler. Fletcher admitted that he responded out of frustration, telling the player: “You seem to know a lot about me, are you a gay boy?”

Despite acknowledging the provocation and the physical incidents noted in the footage, the FA concluded that the slur constituted discriminatory language and warranted a significant sanction.

Jack Fletcher, 18, is one half of the highly regarded twin duo who moved from Manchester City’s academy to Manchester United in 2023.