:2t6dlma8 No it doesnt, it implies he was saddened that his words were perceived as an attack on homosexuals.

:2t6dlma8When you call someone a d1ckhead you dont actually mean they are literally the tip of a penis. When you call someone an h0le you dont literally mean they are a hole in an ar5e

:2t6dlma8 and that is pretty obvious.

and that just seems mental, and disappointingly simply plays into the hands of those saying a big deal is being made about this because it is a mistake that needs rectifying, but because of sad rival supporters trying to score points.

His words were perceived as homophobic, which they were. There was really no need to say he was saddened by people's perception.


What's that got to do with the point I made though? He made a homophobic comment and his intention was to insult someone with it.


But again he just looks like he's wriggling.


I'm definitely not trying to score points mate. I wish Hardaker hadn't said it, he's not the sort of player I've ever had a problem with, he's generally well liked across the board and I'd prefer not to be criticising him right now.

Why? he was saddened that people perceived his attack as one on homosexuals and were offended by it. That seems a normal thing for a person to be saddened about in this context.

To highlight that in moments of frustration, when we insult people, we dont always mean the literal interpretation of the word. Hardaker was wrong to use the word because it is a homophobic slur, that doesnt necessarily mean it had homophobic intent behind it. That is one of the big issues we as a society face in situations like this, that what some use as a casual insult, is a deeply offensive slur to others. Thats why this investigation is necessary, to help people learn the difference.

i think it is bravely explicit. then it seems a strange an unnecessary supposition with no supporting evidence that makes the situation worse.

There's nothing strange about it. He's a well liked and well respected player who I'd prefer not to criticise, but he's made a homophobic slur and in his apology appears not to accept that the blame lies squarely with him and only him. Had he left out the comments I highlighted I wouldn't have an issue.

if you read the comments in their context they dont seem to be wriggling in any way shape or form.

Pretty much my view too.

If he does it again ban him for half a season.

Here you have it.

He used a homophobic slur. When you think of all the non-homophobic words he could have used to equal effect he didn't use them. He used a homophobic one. He need not have done. There are plenty of other insults to fling at someone in the heat of the moment but he didn't choose any of them.

I think he knew exactly what he was doing.

You locked the other interesting discussion but chip your two penneth into this one. BTW, he said something offensive, he didn't say something homophobic.

But your final sentence is spot on.

Aye, only because folk were going round in circles (and in some cases personal and abusive) on a subject with no evidence or substance to it.

Now this statement has been released, crack on...





Bear in mind I think thats the first thread I've locked in about three years, and I didn't even ban Gotcha in the end either!

Reconsider.

I can't comment because it would be criticism of the moderation process

How far can the "big daft lad" defence carry one player?

Twice in nine months he's been a "big daft lad". A less talented player would currently be shopping for a new employer IMO.

If Leeds are that committed to equality and diversity, should they be looking to take some form of pre-emptive action against Hardaker - in public - now he's effectively admitted the offence?