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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Robert Hynes

New Linfield away kit comes under criticism for similarities to UVF flag

The new Linfield away kit has come under criticism online for its similarities to the Ulster Volunteer Force flag.

The purple jersey with an orange stripe was unveiled on Wednesday night and resembles the colours of the loyalist paramilitary group, who were responsible for more than 500 deaths during the Troubles.

A number of people have criticised the jersey on social media.

One person said: "Seriously? An away kit based on the flag of a banned terrorist organisation that murdered 500 people? That is what Linfield wants to visibly stand for? Shame on you."

Another commented: "Great to see Linfield stuck in the dark ages with a UVF inspired strip."

Someone else added: "Simply appalling. I thought the Irish League had moved on from that crap. Obviously not. A huge own goal.

"Has set Linfield's standing back twenty five years. Is the club really that shortsighted? That is how this crassness will be viewed."

Another Twitter user said: "Linfield's new away kit is about as subtle as a chainsaw."

A UVF flag under a Northern Ireland flag (PhotopressBelfast)

A statement on the club's website said of the new kit: "Linfield FC official media is delighted to exclusively reveal the eagerly anticipated Umbro 2020/21 Linfield Away kit.

"Due to social distancing guidelines only two players feature in the following images.

"Club captain Jamie Mulgrew along with the NIFL Danske Bank Premiership trophy.

"Senior international Kelsie Burrows along with the NIFL Danske Bank Women's premiership trophy.

"Linfield FC looks forward to the day when this attractive new kit, excellently designed by our long term kit suppliers Umbro can be proudly worn in action by all our teams."

Linfield say they are "totally opposed to sectarianism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour and abuse".

The Irish Mirror have contacted Linfield for comment on the jersey.

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