Gala Fairydean Rovers striker Zander Murray has become the first senior Scottish football player to come out as gay.
The 30-year-old, who is in his fourth season with the Lowland League club, said he made the decision to help others who wish to open up.
In an interview with the club website, Murray said: “(It) feels like the weight of the world is now off my shoulders.
“I also want to help other players who are struggling with this as it isn’t easy for men, especially footballers to deal with.”
❤️⚫️ Gala Fairydean Rovers striker Zander Murray has announced he is gay – making him the first Scottish senior player to do so.— Gala Fairydean Rovers (@fairydeanrovers) September 16, 2022
In May, Blackpool midfielder Jake Daniels became the first active professional player since Justin Fashanu in 1990 to come out as gay.
Murray hailed the support he has received from team-mates at the club, for whom he holds the record for the most goals scored in a single season.
“The lads at the club have been so supportive,” added Murray. “I have a really strong bond with everyone at the club and I have been blown away by the support.
“Before coming out you think people will turn against you and you think the worst. It’s been lovely how much support I have had.”
‘I don’t think Liverpool would look at Ollie Watkins, a striker isn’t a pressing issue for them – it’s Arsenal who need one’ Former Reds star explains why his old club don’t need an out-and-out forward this summer
‘He’ll still be playing at 40 at a good level because he’s in such good shape and looks after himself so well. He does everything to be a top professional’: Ex-Liverpool coach insists Mohamed Salah has plenty more miles in the tank
