Liverpool have clarified their stance on flags following a banner dedicated to Wataru Endo being confiscated.
The incident occurred during the club’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Stewards did not allow supporter Mark Sweatman to enter Anfield with his banner, despite previously showing his support to Endo from the upper tier of the Main Stand.
Under Premier League guidance, Liverpool have banned Israel and Palestine flags due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, the banner in question saw Endo’s name combined with the Japan flag.
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The Athletic has reported that Liverpool officials have admitted it was a mistake to confiscate the Endo banner. The club’s policy is that national flags are not allowed but flags that are clearly dedicated to Liverpool or a specific player can be displayed, as long as they are of regulation size and have a fire safety certificate.
In his communication with the Reds over the Endo banner, Mr Sweatman was informed that his design would still not be permitted in the Main Stand as it exceeds the accepted 2m x 1m dimensions. Banners exceeding this size are only permitted in the Kop and away section.
“I am absolutely devastated,” Mr Sweatman said, in an interview with The Athletic. “I’ve displayed my banners in the same place at every home game since the Main Stand opened in 2016. They have not been too big for the last seven years. The club have even done features in the programme and on the club website previously telling fans where they can see my work in the ground.
“I feel like they have decided to
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