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Soccer

Linfield say jersey's similarity to UVF flag "totally coincidental"

Linfield have denied that their new away kit is a nod to the UVF.  Earlier this week, the Belfas...



Linfield say jersey's similari...
Soccer

Linfield say jersey's similarity to UVF flag "totally coincidental"

Linfield have denied that their new away kit is a nod to the UVF. 

Earlier this week, the Belfast club launched their new away strip which is largely purple with an orange sash across the jersey.

As well as being a questionable choice of a change strip for a team whose home gear is predominantly blue, the colour scheme caused some to make other connections.

The flag of the Loyalist Paramilitary group, the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), also happen to be broadly purple with an orange trim.

Linfield deny any connections.

In addressing the coincidence, the Danske Bank Premiership champions say, "There have been certain suggestions from a small number from outside the club which this club can not ignore.

"For the avoidance of all doubt, the design is of a football kit for a football club and any similarity / likeness / resemblance with any other design used by any other entity is totally coincidental and entirely unintentional."

Many on Twitter continued to make the link, including Alliance Party Deputy Leader Stephen Farry, who wrote: "This may well be purely coincidental and unintentional, but I do think a rethink would be appropriate.

"The similarity to UVF colours is too striking. Many other colours and designs are available. Why leave any ambiguity and risk offence to so many?"

Linfield statement:

Earlier this week Linfield FC revealed images of the club's new Away kit for the 2020/21 season.

The design has met with approval from large numbers of supporters but unfortunately and sadly, there have been certain suggestions from a small number from outside the club which this club can not ignore.

For the avoidance of all doubt, the design is of a football kit for a football club and any similarity / likeness / resemblance with any other design used by any other entity is totally coincidental and entirely unintentional.

Any allegation or inference to the contrary is robustly and vigorously rejected by this club which prides itself on being inclusive, open to all and representative of all.

Linfield FC is totally opposed to all forms of bigotry, prejudice, violence and discrimination.

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Danske Bank Premiership Linfield Northern Ireland UVF