Man United links with Stonewall to tackle LGBT issues

LGBT charity Stonewall and Manchester United have announced a partnership with the aim of tackling discrimination and homophobia.

Manchester United has pledged to tackle lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues after becoming the first British football club to announce a partnership with charity Stonewall.

The partnership will see United and Stonewall work together in an attempt to rid sport and society of inequality and exclusion, as both entities hope to improve football's relationship with the LGBT community.

Stonewall has been involved in football before, with its Rainbow Laces campaign enjoying significant support among Premier League clubs and players since its inception in 2013.

And now United has become the first club to officially link up with Stonewall, joining its "TeamPride" coalition, a group of global businesses aiming to stamp out homophobia and discrimination.

United managing director Richard Arnold said: "Manchester United always looks to be a leader in everything it does and we are proud to be the first sports club to sign up to TeamPride. "The club has an ongoing commitment to equality across all areas and with 659 million followers around the world, it is our responsibility to show support and recognition to everybody who loves this football club.

"We have built up a positive working relationship with Stonewall and it's a great way for us to learn from each other and progress together as we strive for equality for all of our supporters."