The Gay Football Supporters' Network has welcomed Thomas Hitzlsperger's decision to come out as gay.
The former Aston Villa, West Ham United and Everton midfielder has claimed that it was a "good time" for him to reveal his sexuality publicly.
"We really welcome this news, it shows that we are moving one step closer to creating that atmosphere in football where players at all levels would be able to come out should they want to, safely and free from discrimination," The Mirror quotes GFSN chair Chris Basiurski as saying.
"We hope that one day current players would feel able to come out and that eventually a player's sexual orientation not be a news story, but for now we wish Thomas Hitzlsperger well."
The German midfielder retired from the sport in September last year.
