San Jose Earthquakes forward Alan Gordon issues an apology on Monday and faces possible suspension after NBC cameras captured him shouting “fucking faggot” at Portland Timbers player Will Johnson on Sunday.
Gordon was ejected from the match in the second half after receiving a pair of yellow cards involving fouls on other players. Minutes earlier, he was seen on national television broadcast using the slur toward Johnson.
“Indeed, if there’s any doubt as to what Gordon said it can be seen in Johnson’s immediate reaction … his three fingers and what appears to be the words ‘three games’ refer to the standard MLS disciplinary action for dropping an on-pitch ‘faggot,'” reported Deadspin.
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Johnson responded with the game-winning goal, while Gordon was escorted from the locker room after the game by team personnel and did not speak with reporters.
After the match, Gordon released the statement through the team:
“I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who watched tonight’s match on NBC Sports Network. The language I used came during a heated moment and does not reflect my feelings toward the gay and lesbian community. I made a mistake and I accept full responsibility for my actions.”
On Monday, Dave Kaval, president of the San Jose Earthquakes said he is appalled that Gordon directed an anti-gay slur at an opponent, reported Associated Press.
Kaval said that Gordon’s actions have let down the team’s fans and he will do whatever is necessary so the team can be “viewed as a beacon of diversity, community, and equality.”
Gordon is likely to receive a multi-game suspension.
MLS issued a three-day suspension to Seattle Sounders’ Marc Burch for after he was caught using the exact same slur — coincidentally also aimed at Will Johnson, then of the Real Salt Lake team — during the last season’s playoffs.