Jake Daniels can inspire next generation of footballers to be whoever they are

I was emotional on Jake Daniels’ behalf when on Monday he became the first male professional footballer to come out publicly for 30 years in the UK. I was amazed it was happening; we have waited three decades for a player to feel he can be himself and tell his story in the way Jake has.

There are many openly gay players in the women’s game. We have worked hard to cultivate an environment where inclusion, acceptance and diversity is key to a thriving work and performance environment. If you want to get the best out of a person, regardless of their job, they need to be able to be their true selves. We actively – individually and collectively – work hard to create that culture.

It is not down to the person coming out, it is about everyone else lifting that emotional burden from that person, so they can walk into their changing room, the pitch, wherever it is and be truly themselves and know they will be truly supported. Jake said he felt comfortable telling his story thanks to the support shown by his family. Those in the dressing room need to be that family at work.

It was fantastic to see players such as Harry Kane, Eric Dier and Ben Mee show their support for Jake when the news was announced. Being an ally, openly speaking up and showing their support for the gay community is great because these guys are role models and what they say is heard. They can help influence this conversation. They are all active participants in being self aware in their own environments – how they are communicating is influencing young academy boys in their own direct environments.

We can change the landscape within our own sport by being very aware of what it means to be a leader through actions and words. It is great they are speaking up and