Former Leeds United director David Haigh has claimed that there are at least 20 gay players in England's top two divisions who are afraid to come out.
The businessman, who is openly gay himself, has urged footballers in this situation to open up about their sexuality as a group, insisting that they would find support within the sport.
"Twenty is a fair number in my view, though probably a gross under-estimate," The Mirror quotes Haig as saying.
"They are still playing, in the Premier League and Championship, but I won't mention names as a witch hunt helps no-one.
"Young stars advertise brands with sponsors and being gay is still seen as a handicap. To be suddenly known for their sexuality would be unsettling, but football needs them to go public. Those who did would be brave – but they'd get a lot of support."
Justin Fashanu was the last top-flight footballer to come out as gay and he faced widespread abuse during the 1990s, but Haigh believes that times have changed for the better.
"I believe things have changed massively since then," he added. "I also think supporting gay players would be very beneficial to a club commercially."
Former USA international Robbie Rogers came out as gay while with Leeds United in 2013 and received a standing ovation at Elland Road during his next home match.
Mark Langshaw
