TWO Premier League players in the same team are in a relationship — and open about being a gay couple.
But although it’s no secret in the dressing room, the stars are reluctant to publicly come out.
It comes after we told earlier this earlier this year how a gay former England and Premier League player is in talks about becoming the first to come out in a TV documentary.
And brave Blackpool player Jake Daniels, 17, revealed he was gay in May after gaining the acceptance of teammates.
The two Prem stars got together earlier this year.
A source said: “They did not see the need to hide from their teammates — and why should they?
“No one was remotely bothered about it and they had the backing of the manager and the hierarchy at the club.
“But they decided not to come out publicly — although neither are ashamed and it could happen down the line.
“During the the season they wanted to concentrate on their football.
“While making a statement would positive, it could take their attention away from their performances on the pitch.
“Their teammates have also been told not to say anything publicly to protect their privacy.”
There was uproar this week when Qatari World Cup ambassador Khalid Salman described homosexuality as “a damage in the mind” in an interview.
England legend Gary Lineker, 61, said last month he knows of “one or two” gay Premier League players who have been very close to coming out.
And The Sun on Sunday has told how one Prem ace could open up about his sexuality in a show currently in production, and likely to be aired on Channel 4.
A source said: “This could be a massive step forward for gay players.
“Everyone in football has been talking about it.”
