FA issues guidance to players to take extreme caution on Middle East conflict

The Football Association has ordered clubs to advise their players and staff to exercise ‘extreme caution’ when publicly commenting on the Middle East conflict.

Earlier on Wednesday, English football’s governing body revealed its intention to write to clubs to inform them the use of the specific phrase ‘from the river to the sea’ - that has strong pro-Palestine connotations - is now banned.

The FA has now sent the guidance to clubs and Mail Sport can reveal the document’s contents.

The letter, sent to club secretaries, reads: ‘We recognise opinions are divided and we urge caution for those who take to social media where messages can be misinterpreted and cause offence.

‘We are aware there is heightened sensitivity and we want to call on everyone involved in football to exercise restraint when expressing views that could be seen as causing offence to any community.

‘At this difficult time, everyone in football should show respect for each other and understand the impact language and symbols can have on others.

‘In particular, and as highlighted by the Prime Minister, the phrase “From the River to the Sea” is causing deep offence to many people.

‘We would urge all within football to exercise extreme caution in their use of social media and public comments and we will continue to keep this phrase and any other under review.

‘In the event this specific phrase is used going forward by any Participant we will be seeking guidance from relevant authorities, including police, as to its use.

‘We ask all clubs to speak to their players and others within clubs to encourage any use of social media or public comments to be responsible and respectful.’

The circular then goes on to warn that any public comment deemed to be ‘inflammatory or