Former footballer Stan Collymore has caused controversy by posting an alleged homophobic tweet while referring to diving in football.
The 43-year-old, who now works as a presenter on radio station talkSPORT, referred to the referee's decision to book Sergio Aguero for simulation during Manchester City's 3-0 win over Southampton on Sunday by describing some footballers as "fairies".
He tweeted: "Easiest thing to slaughter a ref. Maybe if they didn't have so many fairies going down like Devon Lock we'd get less confused decisions."
Collymore's reference was to racehorse Devon Loch, who famously fell over while being on course to win the 1956 Grand National.
According to ITV Sport, a spokesman from anti-discrimination group Kick It Out said: "Only Stan Collymore himself would be able to clarify what he meant when using the word.
"There does need to be greater education around the use of such terminology, as 'fairy' has historically been used as a slur towards members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. It is important these sensitivities are recognised."
Collymore's use of the term was also criticised by Football v Homophobia.
Danielle Joynson
