Czech midfielder Jakub Jankto comes out as gay

Czech Republic midfielder Jakub Jankto has revealed that he is gay, saying that he wants to "live [his] life in freedom".

In doing so, the 27-year-old becomes one of the highest profile male footballers to come out during their playing career.

Jankto plies his club trade for Sparta Prague, on loan from Getafe, and has earned 45 caps for his national side.

In a video on social media, he said: "Like everybody else, I have my strengths, I have my weaknesses, I have a family, I have my friends.

"I have a job that I have been doing as best as I can for years with seriousness, with professionalism and passion.

"Like everybody else, I also want to live my life in freedom without fears, without prejudice, without violence but with love.

"I am homosexual and I no longer want to hide myself."

Sparta said in a statement: "Jakub Jankto spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club's management, coach and teammates some time ago.

"Everything else concerns his personal life. No further comments or questions.

"You have our support. Live your life, Jacob. Nothing else matters."

During his career, Jankto has also played for Italian sides Sampdoria, Udinese and Ascoli.

Last year, 18-year-old Blackpool forward Jake Daniels became the first out male professional footballer in the UK in 30 years, while Jankto is now the first current male international player to have come out.