Man Utd youngster Jack Fletcher apologises for homophobic slur

The 18-year-old, the son of former United midfielder and current youth coach Darren Fletcher, was sent off for the incident, which occurred in an EFL Trophy tie between United's Under-21 team and Barnsley in October.

Fletcher was heard by the referee using the words "gay boy" to an opponent, with a regulatory commission hearing deciding he had used the term as an insult.

"I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment," the teenager told manutd.com.

"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.

"I want to be clear that this momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values."

Fletcher has also been fined £1,500 ($2004) and ordered to attend a mandatory face-to-face education programme.

He has made three appearances in the Premier League this season as a substitute.