Celtic star Scott Brown is backing a high-profile campaign against homophobia in football.
The Hoops skipper is leading the way as players from all SPFL clubs say they will support the Rainbow Laces Week of Action.
Teams will wear the colourful tie-ups to help change attitudes in their sport and “make sure that LGBT people are welcomed and accepted at all levels of the game”.
Scott said: “We are delighted again to be part of this year’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
“This year’s initiative once again addresses a very important issue in society which needs to be tackled – therefore we are delighted to once again offer our support.”
In August, the outspoken Celtic captain told how he’d “love to see a player come out at Celtic”.
He said: “Celtic are a big club and we welcome anybody. No matter who you are, what you are or where you come from, we’d welcome you with open arms. It’s a big family club. The club is open to anybody.
“Being gay or bisexual shouldn’t matter in football. As soon as you put that strip on, you’re one of us.
“No matter who you are, you’re a Celtic player. It must be so hard for a gay footballer. They say there’s one in every changing room and to hide it must be tough.
“I hope that someone does feel comfortable to come out because I can’t imagine having to hide who you are. Not coming out to the lads around you must be so hard but I know that at Celtic Park we would be accepting, no matter what.”
Organisers Stonewall Scotland said they were “delighted” this year’s Rainbow Laces Week of Action – which starts on Saturday – was being supported once again by SPFL clubs.
Colin Macfarlane, director of Stonewall Scotland, said: “At a time when society feels increasingly divided, sport has this unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life. That’s why it’s so inspiring to see more and more sports come together each year to support Rainbow Laces.
“While wearing a simple shoelace might seem like a small gesture, for LGBT people it’s a powerful symbol of acceptance.
“The more players, fans, clubs and organisations that stand up for equality, the sooner we reach a place where all LGBT people, from fans to players, are accepted without exception.”
