Jack Fletcher, the 18-year-old son of Manchester United icon Darren Fletcher, has received a six-match suspension along with a £1,500 fine following an FA disciplinary breach that included a reference to sexual orientation.
The young midfielder was also handed an education order after accepting the charge.
The incident took place during United Under-21s’ EFL Trophy fixture against Barnsley in October, which ended in a 5-2 defeat for the visitors.
Fletcher had opened the scoring just seven minutes into the match but was subsequently dismissed with a straight red card as the home side took control in the second half.
In a statement, Fletcher expressed remorse for his conduct.
“I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment,” he said.
“Despite the fact that I had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult, I completely understand that such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game.”
Jack Fletcher expressed remorse for his actions
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The teenager was keen to stress that his behaviour during the match was out of character.
“I want to be clear that this momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values,” Fletcher added.
The FA confirmed that Fletcher admitted the charge and opted for a paper hearing rather than appearing in person.
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United stated that the club has been working with Fletcher to deepen his awareness of discriminatory language and its harmful impact.
The club noted that beyond his continued involvement in the Academy’s existing diversity and inclusion programmes, the young player will undertake additional educational training organised by the FA.
“Manchester United has worked with Jack to strengthen his understanding of discriminatory language, and why it is harmful,” the club said on their official website.
“In addition to his ongoing participation in regular Academy programmes on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also take part in educational training through the FA.”
The club emphasised its values, adding: “Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club.”
Jack Fletcher is the son of Man Utd icon Darren Fletcher
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The FA outlined the specific nature of the charge, alleging that Fletcher “acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words” in breach of Rule E3.1.
The governing body classified the offence as an “Aggravated Breach” under Rule E3.2 due to its reference, whether express or implied, to sexual orientation.
Fletcher and his twin brother Tyler are both products of the United academy system.
Their father Darren, who enjoyed a distinguished career at Old Trafford as a midfielder, briefly took caretaker charge of the first team for two matches in January before returning to his position coaching the Under-18s.
