Behrens apologizes after alleged homophobic remarks
VfL Wolfsburg striker Kevin Behrens has come under fire for his off-pitch behavior.
Sport Bild and Die Welt both report on a controversial incident in September, which the club have confirmed.
The 33-year-old took part in an internal Wolfsburg autograph session in September, during which he refused to sign specially designed shirts featuring the club and VW logos and back numbers in rainbow colors.
"I'm not signing that gay shit," Behrens said, according to Sport Bild, to the shock of Wolfsburg employees.
Behrens has now issued a statement apologising for his actions.
"My spontaneous comments were absolutely not OK. I would like to apologise for that. The issue was clearly discussed internally and I ask for your understanding that I do not want to comment on it any further"," he said.
Wolfsburg released the following statement on the incident:
“During an internal session, remarks were made that were not in line with the stance of VfL Wolfsburg. The incident was immediately dealt with internally. VfL Wolfsburg emphasises that it is aware of its social responsibility. The club and its employees stand for diversity and tolerance, and fundamental values such as respect, honesty and openness have always been firmly anchored in the club's philosophy.”
It is not known to what extent the player has been sanctioned by his employer, but the incident has not yet had any sporting repercussions and there is no information about the striker being suspended.
According to Kicker, Behrens ended up signing the shirts despite his reluctance to do so.
He most recently watched Wolfsburg beat Bochum 3-1 from the bench.