Junior All Whites and Wellington Phoenix reserves midfielder Fin Conchie has been stood down indefinitely after making a homophobic comment during a match.
Conchie admitted to verbally abusing an opposing player during a reserves' Central League game against Petone FC on Saturday.
The 19-year-old's comments weren't heard by officials, but he told the club of his behaviour, and has since been stood down, pending disciplinary action from Capital Football.
"Fin is very apologetic and accepts his comments are completely unacceptable," Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill said.
"Homophobic abuse or abuse of any kind simply isn't tolerated and in no way reflects the values of the club.
"Fin acknowledges this and is prepared to accept any punishment that comes his way.
"He is genuinely sorry for what he's said and wants to own his mistake. Fin has agreed for us to speak out publicly so his teammates aren't suspected of doing anything wrong."
Conchie will now be unable to play for the Phoenix reserves for the foreseeable future, but can continue to train with them and the first team.
Gill labeled Conchie's comments as out of character, and that the club will review its processes to ensure homophobic abuse is stamped out of football.
"We believe there needs to be further education for our young footballers in Aotearoa," he said.
"We have a sports psychologist and a chaplain at the academy, but it's clear we need to do more.
"We will review all of our processes and will work with Rainbow Youth to ensure we're better at educating our young players."
